Control systems for shapeable catheters

ABSTRACT

An intravascular device includes an elongated body having a proximal end and a distal end, and a plurality of energy transmitting conduits extending within the elongated body. The distal ends of the energy transmitting conduits terminate at different axial locations along the distal end of the elongated body. In one embodiment, the number of energy transmission conduits is only two, such that the number of bends in the compound curve assumed by the distal end of the elongated body is only two, although the number of energy transmission conduits may be any suitable number.

RELATED APPLICATION DATA

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/194,198, filed on Mar. 5, 2021, pending, which claims priority to and claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/987,680, filed on Mar. 10, 2020. The entire disclosures of the above applications are expressly incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates generally to medical devices and intravascular medical procedures and, more particularly, to devices and methods for controlling deflection at the distal end of a catheter.

BACKGROUND

Therapeutic or diagnostic catheters are commonly used to perform medical procedures within very small spaces in a patient's body. Most of these medical procedures mandate precise catheter navigation. To access a target site within the human body from a remote location, a catheter is typically passed through one or more body lumens, such as through the vascular system, to the target site. When the vascular system is used, the catheter is inserted into an artery or vein percutaneously or through a relatively small incision in the patient's body. The catheter is then threaded through the patient's system of blood vessels to reach the desired target site. Often a pathway is created through the vasculature to the target site with the use of a delivery device, such as a guide catheter, through which a therapeutic or diagnostic catheter can be guided to the target site.

The usefulness of guide catheters is limited by their ability to successfully navigate through small vessels and around tight bends in the vasculature, such as around the aortic arch. Access of the great vessels off the aortic arch pose challenges, especially when anatomical features require devices to follow a highly tortured or a not well supported path. To overcome some of these challenges, pre-shaped guide catheters have been developed to direct working catheters, such as therapeutic or diagnostic catheters, that are passed therethrough. Such pre-shaped guide catheters may have multiple axially spaced curves that allow access to the great vessels off of the aortic arch. For example, guide catheters having various types of pre-shaped distal ends (e.g., Simmons, Headhunter, Vitek, Bentson, Newton shapes) have been developed to both assist in negotiating twists and branches common in a patient's arterial or venous system and to maintain a shape once positioned within a target cavity, e.g., a chamber in the heart. However, since the pre-shaped curve is fixed into the guide catheter at the time of manufacture, the radius, extent of the curvature, and overall shape generally cannot be altered. Due to anatomical variations, extensive pre-surgical planning would be necessary to determine the correct curvature of the guide catheter.

New guide catheters that are able to change shape in-situ may be of use in facilitating access to a target site. For example, the distal end of one guide catheter can be in a shaped/stiff configuration to precisely direct a guidewire extending through the guide catheter towards a particular vascular opening. The distal end of the guide catheter can then be transformed to a non-shaped/flexible configuration to allow easier advancement along the guidewire towards and into the vascular opening, which, after removal of the guidewire, then provides support for the advancement of a working catheter through the guide catheter. Conventionally, the distal end of a guide catheter can be made to be selectively shapeable or stiff by deflecting the distal end of the guide catheter.

Some deflectable guide catheters have been developed to more effectively navigate through the tortuous pathways of some body lumens, particularly the vascular system. For example, deflectable guide catheters are commonly used in electrophysiology (EP) for mapping and ablation of endocardial tissue, and structural heart repair (e.g., transcatheter aortic valve repair (TAVR), atrial septal defect and appendage closure, etc.). Deflectable guide catheters used for these applications generally need to provide very stable and finely adjustable positioning in a bi-directional, and sometimes multi-planar, manner to either support working catheters or allow working catheters to precisely contact specific tissues.

Deflectable guide catheters conventionally employ one or more pull wires embedded within the wall of the guide catheter. Typically, the pull wire(s) are embedded within the wall for the entire length of the guide catheter or for most of the length of the guide catheter, from the distal end to one or more control mechanisms on the proximal end of the guide catheter. Various methods for actuation of deflectable and/or tip deflection catheters have been developed, and including individually sliding, pivoting, or rotating means of user force input into the control system to affect a wire tension in the catheter, e.g., as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,190,050 and 6,913,594 and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2017/0065415. For one-way deflections in a single plane, the pull wire or multiple pull wires run down one side of the guide catheter. When the pull wire is pulled the pulling force reduces the length of the guide catheter on the side of the pull wire, thereby causing the guide catheter to bend in that direction. The resilience of the guidewire extending through the guide catheter may return the distal end of the guide catheter to a straight configuration when the pull wire is relaxed. For two-way deflectable guide catheter, a second pull wire may be fitted at 180 degrees from the first wire. In this case the guide catheter will flex in much the same way as per a single direction device as each wire is loaded, with the flexing caused by each wire being in different directions. The wire opposite the active pull wire may either remain stationary relative to the proximal end or it may move proximally as this side of the deflection section also contracts.

Navigation through the lumens of the vascular system typically only requires deflecting the catheter tip toward a particular branch at a bifurcation, a relatively simple maneuver. Such deflection, basically the ability to form a single curvature, is generally inadequate for accessing and directing the catheter into the great vessels of the aortic arch or toward a target in a cavity, such as the heart chamber. For example, in the case of TAVR, when targeting the mitral valve within the cavity of the left atrium or left ventricle, many more variables are present, such as the type of approach, the variability of anatomy and the various targets associated with the mitral valve, such as various points on the leaflets, the commissures, the free edges, the chordae tendinae, etc. These variables increase the need for a deflectable guide catheter that can provide a higher degree of articulation than a single curve catheter or a catheter that does not provide compound curves in an adjustable manner.

Accordingly, deflectable guide catheters capable of providing compound curves in an adjustable manner have been designed. One such deflectable guide catheter employs multiple pull wires that extend along different sides of the catheter and are affixed at different axial locations along the catheter. The pull wires may be tensioned by separate mechanisms at the proximal end of the catheter to cause the distal end of the guide catheter to assume a compound curve, with each bend in the compound curve being independently articulatable by a respective pull wire. However, placing the distal end of such a deflectable catheter into the desired compound curve may be difficult and tedious, since tension must be applied to one pull wire by its control mechanism to create one bend of the compound curve, tension must then be applied to another pull wire by its control mechanism to create another bend of the compound curve, and so forth. Furthermore, tensions on the respective pull wires must be balanced, such that the magnitudes of the bends in the desired compound curve are achieved. Proper balance between the pull wires may be difficult to achieve tension on a distal bend in the compound curve may affect a more proximal bend in the compound curve. Thus, the tensions of independently controllable pull wires of such a guide catheter may have to be repeatedly adjusted back and forth to achieve the desired compound curve.

There, thus, is an ongoing need to provide a simpler and more robust means for creating a compound curve at a distal end of an elongated intravascular device, such as a guide catheter.

SUMMARY

In accordance with the present inventions, an intravascular device comprises an elongated body having a proximal end and a distal end, and a plurality of energy transmitting conduits extending within the elongated body. The distal ends of the energy transmitting conduits terminate at different axial locations along the distal end of the elongated body. In one embodiment, the number of energy transmission conduits is only two, such that the number of bends in the compound curve assumed by the distal end of the elongated body is only two, although the number of energy transmission conduits may be any suitable number.

The intravascular body further comprises a control mechanism, and an energy transmission linkage coupled between proximal ends of the energy transmission conduits and the control mechanism. The energy transmission linkage is configured for, in response to a single energy input applied to the energy transmission linkage by the control mechanism, simultaneously applying a plurality of energy outputs respectively to the proximal ends of the energy transmitting conduits at a preset control parameter ratio. The distal end of the elongated body is configured for assuming a compound curve comprising a plurality of bends in response to the application of the plurality of energy outputs by the energy transmission linkage to the proximal ends of the energy transmitting conduits. The intravascular device may further comprise a handle affixed to the proximal end of elongated body, in which case, the control mechanism and energy transmission linkage may be supported by the handle.

In one embodiment, the control parameter ratio of the energy transmission linkage is different than unity. In another embodiment, the control parameter ratio of the energy transmission linkage is adjustable, in which case, the intravascular device may further comprise a control parameter ratio adjustment mechanism configured for adjusting the preset control parameter ratio of the energy transmission linkage. The control parameter ratio adjustment mechanism may, e.g., be configured for adjusting the preset control parameter ratio of the energy transmission linkage within a continuous range or discrete range.

In one embodiment, the energy transmission conduits may be mechanical energy transmission conduits, in which case, the energy transmission linkage may be a mechanical energy transmission linkage, the single energy input may be a single mechanical energy input, and the energy outputs may be mechanical energy outputs. The mechanical energy outputs may be applied to the proximal ends of the mechanical energy transmission conduits in accordance with one of a preset force ratio and a preset linear displacement ratio.

In one specific embodiment, the mechanical energy transmission conduits are pull wires and the one of the preset force ratio and the preset linear displacement ratio comprises one of a pull wire tension ratio and a pull wire displacement ratio.

If one of the preset pull wire tension ratio and the preset pull wire displacement ratio comprises the preset pull wire tension ratio, the mechanical energy outputs are tensile outputs. In this case, the mechanical transmission linkage may comprise a first moment arm to which a proximal end of a first one of the pull wires is operatively coupled, a second moment arm to which a proximal end of a second one of the pull wires is operatively coupled, and a drive assembly operatively coupled to the first moment arm and the second moment arm. The control mechanism may be configured for applying the single mechanical energy input to the drive assembly to create the same moment on the first moment arm and the second moment arm respectively about a first axis and a second axis, such that the first moment arm applies a first one of the tensile outputs to the proximal end of the first pull wire, and the second moment arm applies a second one of the tensile outputs to the proximal end of the second pull wire, in accordance with the preset pull wire tension ratio. The first moment arm and the second moment arm may have different lengths, such that the first tensile output and second tensile output are different.

In one embodiment, the first axis and the second axis may be common, in which case, the drive assembly may comprise a pulley including an axle to which the control mechanism is configured for applying the mechanical energy input, and a wheel around which the proximal end of the first pull wire is looped, and the mechanical transmission linkage comprises a lever having lever arm and a hinge corresponding to the common axis. The drive assembly may further comprise a yoke having two arms, the axle of the pulley being may be rotatably affixed between the two arms of the yoke, and the control mechanism may be coupled to the yoke for applying the mechanical energy input to the axle of the pulley.

In this embodiment, the proximal end of the first pull wire is engaged to the lever arm at a first anchor point to create the first moment arm, and the proximal end of the second pull wire is engaged to the lever arm at a second anchor point to create the second moment arm. The first anchor point may be located between the second anchor point and the hinge, such that the preset pull wire tension ratio of the first tensile output over the second tensile output is greater than unity. The proximal end of the first pull wire may be slidably engaged to the lever arm, such that the first anchor point is adjustable along a length of the lever arm to adjust the length of the first moment arm, and thus, the preset pull wire tension ratio of the first tensile output over the second tensile output.

In this embodiment, the intravascular device may further comprise a wire tension ratio adjustment mechanism configured for adjusting the first anchor point along the length of the lever arm. For example, the wire tension ratio adjustment mechanism may comprise a slider carriage to which the proximal end of the first pull wire is affixed. The slider carriage may be configured for being displaced along the lever arm to adjust the first anchor point along the length of the lever arm. The lever arm may have a lengthwise slot and the slider carriage may have a protuberance to which the proximal end of the first pull wire is affixed. The protuberance may be configured for slidably engaging the slot of the lever arm. The slider carriage may comprise first and second collars transversely straddling the lever arm, and the wire tension ratio adjustment mechanism may further comprise a first rod and a second rod respectively threadedly engaged in the first collar and the second collar of the slider carriage, a drive gear affixed to the first rod, and an idle gear affixed to the second rod. The drive gear and the idle gear may be engaged with each other, such that rotation of the first rod causes the second rod to rotate via the engagement between the drive gear and the idle gear, thereby displacing the slider carriage along the lever arm.

If one of the preset pull wire tension ratio and the preset pull wire displacement ratio comprises the preset pull wire displacement ratio, the mechanical energy outputs are linear displacement outputs. In this case, the mechanical transmission linkage may comprise a first cam to which a proximal end of a first one of the pull wires is operatively coupled, a second cam to which a proximal end of a first one of the pull wires is operatively coupled, and a drive assembly operatively coupled to the first cam and the second cam. The control mechanism may be configured for applying the mechanical energy input to the drive assembly, such that the first cam applies a first one of the linear displacement outputs to the proximal end of the first pull wire, and the second cam applies a second one of the linear displacement outputs to the proximal end of the second pull wire, in accordance with the preset pull wire displacement ratio.

The first cam may comprise a first linear element to which the proximal end of the first pull wire is affixed, the first cam may comprise a first rotary element engaged with the drive assembly, and the second cam may comprise a second linear element to which the proximal end of the second pull wire is affixed, and a second rotary element engaged with the drive assembly. The control mechanism may be configured for applying the mechanical energy input to the drive assembly, such that the first rotary element and the second rotary element have the same angular displacement, and the first rotary element and the second rotary element may have different radii, such that the first linear displacement output and second linear displacement output are different.

In one embodiment, the drive assembly may comprise a linear drive rack having a first geared side and a second geared side opposite the first geared side, the first linear element may comprise a first linear gear affixed to the proximal end of the first pull wire, the first rotary element may comprise a first rotary gear and a second rotary gear fixed in relation to the first rotary gear, the first rotary gear may be engaged with the first linear gear, the second rotary gear may be engaged with the first geared side of the linear drive rack, the second linear element may comprise a second linear gear affixed to the proximal end of the second pull wire, the second rotary element may comprise a third rotary gear engaged between the second linear gear and the second geared side of the linear drive rack, and the control mechanism may be configured for applying the mechanical energy input to the linear drive rack, such that the first rotary gear and the second rotary gear rotate in unison to linearly displace the first linear gear, thereby applying the first tensile output to the proximal end of the first pull wire, and the third rotary gear rotates to linear displace the second linear gear, thereby applying the second tensile output to the proximal end of the second pull wire, in accordance with the preset pull wire displacement ratio. The radius of the first rotary gear may be different from a radius of the third rotary gear, such that the preset pull wire displacement ratio is different from unity.

In another embodiment, the drive assembly comprises an axle, the first linear element comprises a first belt, the second linear element comprises a second belt, the mechanical transmission linkage comprises a wheel assembly having a first annular groove that forms the first rotary element, and a second annular groove that forms the second rotary element. The first belt is looped around the first annular groove of the wheel assembly to form a first distal end coupled to the proximal end of the first pull wire and a second distal end coupled to a first anchor point, the second belt is looped around the second annular groove of the wheel assembly to form a first distal end coupled to the proximal end of the second pull wire and a second distal end coupled to a second anchor point, and the control mechanism is configured for applying the linear input force to the axle, such that first annular groove rotates to linearly displace the first belt, thereby applying the first linear displacement output to the proximal end of the first pull wire, and the second annular groove rotates to linearly displace the second belt, thereby applying the second linear displacement output to the proximal end of the second pull wire, in accordance with the preset pull wire displacement ratio. The looped belt may have a first radius, and the second looped belt may have second radius different from the first radius, such that the preset pull wire displacement ratio is different from unity.

In this embodiment, the first looped belt has a first radius, and the second looped belt has a second radius, and the intravascular device further comprises a pull wire displacement ratio adjustment mechanism configured adjusting at least one of the first radius of the first looped belt and the second radius of the second looped belt. The wheel assembly may comprise first and second outer plates disposed on the axle. The first and second outer plates are laterally affixed along the axle and respectively having convex conical surfaces that face each other. The wheel assembly may further comprise an inner plate slidably disposed along the axle between the first and second outer plates. The drive assembly may further comprise a yoke having two arms, the axle may be rotatably affixed between the two arms of the yoke, and the control mechanism may be coupled to the yoke for applying the mechanical energy input to the axle of the pulley.

The inner plate may have opposing first and second convex conical surfaces that respectively face the convex conical surfaces of the first and second outer plates, whereby the first annular groove is formed between the convex conical surface of the first outer plate and the first convex conical surface of the inner plate. The second annular groove may be formed between the convex conical surface of the second outer plate and the second convex conical surface of the inner plate. The first belt may have inwardly angled opposing surfaces that respectively conform to the convex conical surface of the first outer plate and the first convex conical surface of the inner plate, thereby setting a first radius of the first looped belt, and the second belt may have inwardly angled opposing surfaces that respectively conform to the convex conical surface of the second outer plate and the second convex conical surface of the inner plate, thereby setting a second radius of the second looped belt. The intravascular device may further comprise a pull wire displacement ratio adjustment mechanism configured for laterally sliding the inner plate along the axle, whereby a width of the first annular groove is increased, thereby decreasing the radius of the first looped belt, such that the first tensile output decreases, while a width of the second annular groove is decreased, thereby increasing the radius of the second looped belt, such that the second tensile output increases, whereby the preset pull wire displacement ratio is modified. Each of the first and second belts may have a trapezoidal cross-section.

The pull wire displacement ratio adjustment mechanism may comprise a slider carriage configured for being laterally displaced along a direction of the axle. The sider carriage may have a groove in which an outer portion of the inner plate is disposed, such that displacement of the slider carriage slides the inner plate along the axle. The pull wire displacement ratio adjustment mechanism may further comprise a pair of rails extending in a direction along the axle. The slider carriage may be configured for sliding along the pair of rails.

In still another embodiment, the first rotary element and the second rotary element may have the same radii, and the control mechanism may be configured for applying the mechanical energy input to the drive assembly, such that the first rotary element and the second rotary element have different angular displacements, whereby the first linear displacement output and second linear displacement output are different. The assembly may comprise a first cone, a second cone inversely oriented with respect to, and rotatably engaged with, the first cone, and a belt frictionally disposed between the first cone and the second cone. The first rotary element may comprise a first rotary gear affixed adjacent to a base of the first cone, and the second rotary element may comprise a second rotary element comprises a second rotary gear affixed adjacent to a base of the second cone. The first linear element may comprise a first linear gear operatively engaged with the first rotary gear, the first linear gear may be affixed to the proximal end of the first pull wire, the second linear element may comprise a second linear gear operatively engaged with the second rotary gear, and the second linear gear may be affixed to the proximal end of the second pull wire. The control mechanism may be configured for applying the mechanical energy input to the belt, such that first cone and the first rotary gear rotate in unison to linearly displace the first linear gear, thereby applying the first linear displacement output to the proximal end of the first pull wire, and the second cone and the second rotary gear rotate in unison to linearly displace the second linear gear, thereby applying the second linear displacement output to the proximal end of the second pull wire, in accordance with the preset pull wire displacement ratio.

The belt may be frictionally disposed between the first cone and the second cone at a first location coincident with a first radius of the first cone and a second radius of the second cone different from the first cone, such that the preset pull wire displacement ratio is different from unity. The belt may be configured for being laterally displaced between the first cone and the second cone. The intravascular device may further comprise a pull wire displacement ratio adjustment mechanism configured for laterally displacing the belt between the first cone and the second cone. The pull wire displacement ratio adjustment mechanism may comprise a pivotable carriage comprising a plurality of arms configured for supporting the belt along the length of the belt, and a pivot arm extending along the length of the belt, and around which the plurality of arms pivot to laterally displace the belt between the first cone and the second cone. The drive assembly may further comprise a slider configured for sliding along an axis parallel to the pivot arm of the pivotable carriage. The control mechanism may be coupled to the yoke for applying the mechanical energy input to the slider. The slider may have a guide slot along which a proximal end of the belt is slidably engaged. The guide slot may have an angle corresponding to an angle of the interface between the first cone and the second cone, such that proximal end of the belt slides along the guide slot when the belt is laterally displaced between the first cone and the second cone.

In some embodiments, the energy transmission linkage may be a fluidic energy transmission linkage, and the single energy input may be a single mechanical energy input. In this case, the energy transmission conduits may be mechanical energy transmission conduits, and the energy outputs may be mechanical energy outputs. Alternatively, the energy transmission conduits may be fluidic energy transmission conduits, and the energy outputs may be fluidic energy outputs.

Other and further aspects and features of embodiments will become apparent from the ensuing detailed description in view of the accompanying figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawings illustrate the design and utility of preferred embodiments of the disclosed inventions, in which similar elements are referred to by common reference numerals. It should be noted that the figures are not drawn to scale and that elements of similar structures or functions are represented by like reference numerals throughout the figures. It should also be noted that the figures are only intended to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention or as a limitation on the scope of the invention, which is defined only by the appended claims and their equivalents. In addition, an illustrated embodiment of the disclosed inventions needs not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Further, an aspect or an advantage described in conjunction with a particular embodiment of the disclosed inventions is not necessarily limited to that embodiment and can be practiced in any other embodiments even if not so illustrated.

In order to better appreciate how the above-recited and other advantages and objects of the disclosed inventions are obtained, a more particular description of the disclosed inventions briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered limiting of its scope, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1A is a plan view of catheter constructed in accordance with one embodiment of the disclosed inventions, particularly showing a distal end of the catheter in a straight configuration;

FIG. 1B is a plan view of the catheter of FIG. 1A, particularly showing the distal end of the catheter in a curved configuration;

FIGS. 2A-2C are plan views of the catheter of FIG. 1A transitioning from a straight configuration to a curve configuration;

FIGS. 3A-3C are plan views of a prior art catheter transitioning from a straight configuration to a curve configuration;

FIG. 4A is a plan view of one embodiment of an elongated catheter body of the catheter of FIG. 1A, particularly showing the distal end of the catheter body in a straight configuration;

FIG. 4B is a plan view of the elongated catheter body of FIG. 4A, particularly showing the distal end of the catheter body in a curved configuration in accordance with one preset control parameter ratio;

FIG. 4C is a partially cut-away cross-sectional view of the elongated catheter body of FIG. 4A, taken along the longitudinal axis of catheter body;

FIG. 5A is a plan view of the elongated catheter body of FIG. 4A, particularly showing the distal end of the catheter body in a curved configuration in accordance with another preset control parameter ratio;

FIG. 5B is a plan view of the elongated catheter body of FIG. 4A, particularly showing the distal end of the catheter body in a curved configuration in accordance with still another preset control parameter ratio;

FIG. 5C is a plan view of the elongated catheter body of FIG. 4A, particularly showing the distal end of the catheter body in a curved configuration in accordance with yet another preset control parameter ratio;

FIG. 6A is a plan view of a handle with one embodiment of a control mechanism and mechanical energy linkage of the catheter of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view of the handle, control mechanism, and mechanical energy linkage of FIG. 6A;

FIG. 7 is a plan view of one embodiment of a mechanical transmission linkage used in the catheter of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 8 is a plan view of one specific embodiment of the mechanical transmission linkage of FIG. 7 ;

FIG. 9 is a plan view of another embodiment of a mechanical transmission linkage used in the catheter of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 10 is a plan view of one specific embodiment of the mechanical transmission linkage of FIG. 9 ;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another specific embodiment of the mechanical transmission linkage of FIG. 9 ;

FIG. 12 is a partially cutaway perspective view of the mechanical transmission linkage of FIG. 11 ;

FIG. 13 is a front view of the mechanical transmission linkage of FIG. 11 ;

FIG. 14 is another partially cutaway perspective view of the mechanical transmission linkage of FIG. 11 ;

FIG. 15 is a front view of a camming assembly used by the mechanical transmission linkage of FIG. 11 ;

FIG. 16 is a side view of a camming assembly used by the mechanical transmission linkage of FIG. 11 ;

FIG. 17 is a plan view of still another embodiment of a mechanical transmission linkage used in the catheter of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a specific embodiment of the mechanical transmission linkage of FIG. 17 ;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the mechanical transmission linkage of FIG. 18 ;

FIG. 20 is a top view of the mechanical transmission linkage of FIG. 18 ;

FIG. 21 is a side view of the mechanical transmission linkage of FIG. 18 ;

FIG. 22 is a front view of the mechanical transmission linkage of FIG. 18 ;

FIG. 23A is a front view of a conical drive used in the mechanical transmission linkage of FIG. 18 , particularly showing a belt of the conical drive in one lateral position;

FIG. 23B is a cross-sectional view of the conical drive of FIG. 23A, taken along the line 23B-23B;

FIG. 24A is a front view of the conical drive of FIG. 23A, particularly showing the belt of conical drive in another lateral position;

FIG. 24B is a cross-sectional view of the conical drive of FIG. 24A, taken along the line 24B-24B;

FIG. 25 is a plan view of an embodiment of a fluidic transmission linkage that can alternatively be used in the catheter of FIG. 1A; and

FIG. 26 is a plan view of another embodiment of a fluidic transmission linkage that can alternatively be used in the catheter of FIG. 1A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENTS

Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B, one embodiment of a deflectable elongated intravascular device 10 constructed in accordance with one embodiment of the present inventions will now be described. In the illustrated embodiment, the deflectable elongated intravascular device 10 is described as a guide catheter configured for guiding working catheters (e.g., a therapeutic or diagnostic catheter) or other instruments to a target site within the body of a patient, although it should be appreciated that the elongated intravascular device 10 can take the form of any device, including a selective catheter, guidewire, or even the working catheter, itself, that is purposed to perform a medical procedure that can benefit from the use of compound curves.

The deflectable catheter 10 generally comprises an elongated catheter body 12 having a proximal end 24 and a distal end 26, a handle 14 affixed to the proximal end 24 of the catheter body 12, and a control mechanism 16 associated with the handle 12. The distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 is configured for selectively transforming between a straight configuration (FIG. 1A) and a curved configuration (FIG. 1B) in response manual manipulation of the control mechanism 12 associated with the handle 14, as will be described in further detail below.

The handle 14 is configured for being manually grasped by an operator, and may be composed of a durable and rigid material, such as medical grade plastic, and ergonomically molded to allow an operator to more easily manipulate the deflectable catheter 10. The curved configuration is characterized by a compound curve 28 (i.e., a curve having multiple different bends either in-plane or out-of-plane with respect to each other). In an alternative case where the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 may assume multiple compound curves, multiple control mechanisms 16 may be provided (i.e., one control mechanism 16 associated with each compound curve). Furthermore, although the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 assumes the compound curve 28 in response to manual manipulation of a control mechanism 16 located on a handle 14, it should be appreciated that the distal end of the catheter body in alternative embodiments of the deflectable catheter 10 may assume a compound curve in response to automated manipulation of a control mechanism associated with a proximal adapter, e.g., by an automated drive unit to which the proximal adapter couples.

Significantly, the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 is configured for assuming the compound curve 28 in response to a single action manipulation of the control mechanism 16 by the operator, thereby providing a simpler and more robust means for creating the compound curve 28. This single action manipulation feature is enabled by the use of an energy transmission linkage 18 (see FIGS. 6A and 6B) operably coupled between the control mechanism 16 and a plurality of energy transmission conduits 20 extending through the catheter body 12 (see FIG. 4C) and terminating at different axial locations along the distal end 26 thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, the total number of energy transmission conduits 20 is two (20 a and 20 b), although any plural number of energy transmission conduits 20 may be used. As a general rule, the total number of bends in the compound curve 28 or compound curves that the distal end 26 of the deflectable catheter 10 assumes will equal the minimum number of energy transmission conduits 20. Thus, if the compound curve consists of more than two bends or if distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 is to assume multiple compound curves, more than two energy transmission conduits 20 are generally employed.

As will be described in further detail below, the energy transmission linkage 18 is configured for, in response to a single energy input applied to the energy transmission linkage 18 by the control mechanism 16, simultaneously applying a plurality of energy outputs respectively to the proximal ends of the energy transmitting conduits 20 a, 20 b at a preset control parameter ratio. The preset control parameter ratio can be any ratio between values of a parameter that respectively affect the bends of a compound curve (i.e., a first value of the parameter affects a first bend of the compound curve, a second value of the same parameter affects a second bend of the compound curve, etc.). The parameter can be an output of the energy transmission linkage 18, e.g., force, linear displacement, volume, pressure, amperage, voltage, lumens, etc., or can be internal to the energy transmission linkage 18, e.g., a length of moment arm, piston area, pulley radius, gear radius, screw pitch etc.).

As will also be described in further detail below, in some embodiments of the deflectable catheter 10, the final shape of the compound curve 28 assumed by the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 can be adjustable (continuously or discretely) via a control parameter ratio adjustment mechanism 22 configured for adjusting the preset control parameter ratio of the energy transmission linkage 18.

Referring now to FIGS. 2A-2C, the gradual transformation of the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 of the deflectable catheter 10 from a straight configuration to the curved configuration consisting of the compound curve 28 will be described. In the illustrated embodiment, the compound curve 28 that the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 assumes a 90-degree proximal bend 30 away from a longitudinal axis 34 of the catheter body 12, followed by a 180-degree distal bend 32 back towards the longitudinal axis 34 of the catheter body 12, with the proximal bend 30 and distal bend 32 disposed in the same plane. It should be appreciated that the compound curve illustrated in FIG. 2C is only exemplary, and alternative embodiments of the deflectable catheter 10 may comprise different types of compound curves having different shapes or different numbers of bends, including bends that are out-of-plane with each other, or even multiple compound curves.

As illustrated in FIG. 2A, the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 is in a straight configuration. In response to a single action manipulation of the control mechanism 16 associated with the handle 14 of the deflectable catheter 10, the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 begins to partially assume a compound curve 28′ that has a partially formed proximal bend 30′ and a partially formed distal bend 32′ that are simultaneously articulated, as illustrated in FIG. 2B. In response to further single action manipulation of the control mechanism 16, the distal end 26 of the catheter body 26 fully assumes the compound curve 28 that has a completely formed proximal bend 30 (i.e., a 90-degree bend) and a completely formed distal bend 32 (i.e., a 180-degree bend) that are simultaneously articulated, as illustrated in FIG. 2C.

The single action manipulation feature of the deflectable catheter 10 should be contrasted with prior art deflectable catheters that progressively form a compound curve using multiple independently controllable mechanism that require the operator to tediously balance articulation of the multiple bends of the compound curve. For example, referring now to FIGS. 3A-3C, the gradual transformation of a distal end 3 of a catheter body 2 of a prior art deflectable catheter 1 from a straight configuration to the curved configuration consisting of a compound curve 4 analogous to the compound curve 28 of the deflectable catheter 10 will be described. As illustrated in FIG. 3A, the distal end 3 of the catheter body 2 is in a straight configuration similar to the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 of the deflectable catheter 10 illustrated in FIG. 2A. The operator must first actuate one of the control mechanisms (not shown) to form the distal bend 6 of the compound curve 4 in the distal end 3 of the catheter body 2, as illustrated in FIG. 3B, and then actuate the other control mechanism (not shown) to form the proximal bend 5 of the compound curve 4 in the distal end 3 of the catheter body 2, as illustrated in FIG. 3C. Although the prior art deflectable catheter 1 illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3C can ultimately achieve the same compound curve as the deflectable catheter 10 illustrated in FIGS. 2A-2C, multiple steps are required to form the compound curve with the prior art deflectable catheter 1. Furthermore, since the formation of the proximal bend 5 may affect the distal bend 6, the operator may need to iteratively form the distal bend 6 and proximal bend 5 in order to achieve the proper shape in the compound curve. As such, the prior art deflectable catheter 1 may not be as user friendly as the deflectable catheter 10 when creating the compound curve.

Having generally described the arrangement and functioning of the deflectable catheter 10, the catheter body 12, handle 14, control mechanism 16, energy transmission linkage 18, and energy transmission conduits 20 a, 20 b will now be described in further detail.

Referring first to FIGS. 4A-4C, the catheter body 12 of the deflectable catheter is substantially pliable or flexible, such that when it is advanced into a patient, the catheter body 12 will conform, adopt, or match the shape or curvatures of the internal pathways (e.g., gastrointestinal tract, blood vessels, etc.) of the patient. Alternatively, the catheter body 12 may be semi-rigid, i.e., by being made of a stiff material, or by being reinforced with a coating or coil, to limit the amount of flexing. The catheter body 12 is preferably about 2 French to 9 French in diameter, and between 80 cm to 150 cm in length. The catheter body 12 preferably has a cross-sectional geometry that is circular. However, other cross-sectional shapes, such as elliptical, rectangular, triangular, and various customized shapes, may be used as well. The catheter body 12 is preferably preformed of an inert, resilient plastic material that retains its shape and does not soften significantly at body temperature; for example, Pebax®, polyethylene, polyurethane, polyamide or Hytrel® (polyester). Alternatively, the catheter body 12 may be made of a variety of materials, including, but not limited to, metals and polymers. The catheter body 12 is preferably flexible so that it is capable of winding through a tortuous path that leads to a target site, i.e., an area within the heart. The catheter body 12 may be composed of multiple layers of materials and/or multiple tube structures that exhibit a low bending stiffness, while providing a high axial stiffness along the longitudinal axis of the catheter body 12. Typical designs include a nitinol spine encapsulated in braid and any flexible, pliable, or suitable polymer material or bio-compatible polymer material or a braided plastic composite structure composed of low durometer plastics (e.g., nylon-12, Pebax®, polyurethanes, polyethylenes, etc.).

In this embodiment, the catheter body 12 is functionally divided into four sections: an atraumatic distal tip 34, a distal articulating section 36, an intermediate transition section 38, and a proximal shaft section 40.

The atraumatic distal tip 34 is rounded and includes an exit port (not shown) in communication with a central working lumen 42 (shown in FIG. 4C) and from which a working catheter or guidewire may extend distally therefrom. The atraumatic tip 34 may be composed of a suitable polymer material (e.g., Pebax®).

The distal articulating section 36 preferably allows for a moderate degree of axial compression and optimal lateral flexibility. The distal articulating section 36 has a several portions of differing rigidities formed by having different outer tubes composed of a suitable polymer material (e.g., Pebax®). In the illustrated embodiment, the distal articulating section 36 comprises a relatively flexible proximal segment 36 a, which is designed to articulate to form the proximal bend 30 of the compound curve 28 (as best shown in FIG. 4B), a relatively rigid proximal segment 36 b abutting the relatively flexible proximal segment 36 a, a relatively flexible distal segment 36 c, which is designed to articulate to form the distal bend 32 of the compound curve 28, abutting the relatively rigid proximal segment 36 b, and a relatively rigid distal segment 36 d abutting the relatively flexible distal segment 36 c. The length of the distal articulating section 36 can vary depending on the performance requirements for the deflectable catheter 10. A longer distal articulating section 36 may be beneficial to increase the area of reach, while a shorter distal articulating section 36 may be beneficial for cannulating tight side branches in the anatomical vasculature. To increase its axial rigidity and elastic properties, the distal articulating section 36 may comprise a braided layer (e.g., sixteen 0.0005″×0.003″ spring temper 304V stainless steel wires braided at 68 picks per inch (ppi) in a 2 over 2 pattern) embedded within the outer polymer tubes, may comprise a coil with a varied pitch, or may comprise a slotted (e.g., micromachined) hypotube to tailors the flexibility and bending plane of the distal articulating section 36.

The intermediate transition section 38 resists axial compression to clearly define the proximal end of the distal articulating section 36 and transfer the motion of the energy transmission conduits 20 a, 20 b to the distal articulating section 36, while maintaining lateral flexibility to allow the deflection catheter 10 to track over tortuous anatomies. The intermediate transition section 38 may be formed of an outer tube composed of a suitable polymer material (e.g., Pebax®).

The proximal shaft section 40 gradually transitions the catheter body 12 from the intermediate transition section 38 to the more rigid remaining portion of the catheter body 12 by having several portions of differing rigidities formed by having different outer tubes composed of a suitable polymer material (e.g., Pebax®). To increase its axial rigidity, the proximal shaft section 10 may comprise a double braided layer (e.g., sixteen×0.003″ spring temper 304V stainless steel wires braided at 68 picks per inch (ppi) in a 2 over 2 pattern) embedded within the outer polymer tubes.

As best shown in FIG. 4C, the central working lumen 42 is disposed through the entire length of the catheter body 12 for delivering a working catheter (not shown) or one or more instruments or tools from the proximal end 24 of the catheter body 12 to the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12. The nature of the working lumen 42 will depend on the intended use of the deflectable catheter 10. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the deflectable catheter 10 is to be used as a guide sheath, in which case, the working lumen 42 will serve to accommodate a working catheter or other instrument). If the deflectable catheter 10 is to be used as a working or selective catheter, the working lumen 42 will serve to accommodate a guide wire (not shown). At least a portion of the working lumen 42 extending through the catheter body 12 may be formed by an inner polymer tube (e.g., 0.001″ thick polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)).

In the illustrated embodiment, the energy transmission conduits 20 a, 20 b are mechanical energy transmission conduits, and in particular, take the form of pull wires that extend within the elongated catheter body 14. Each of pull wires 20 a, 20 b may be a metallic wire, cable or filament, or it may be a polymeric wire, cable or filament. Each pull wire 20 a, 20 b may also be made of natural or organic materials or fibers. Each pull wire 20 b may be any type of suitable wire, cable or filament capable of supporting various kinds of loads without deformation, significant deformation, or breakage. Although mechanical energy transmission conduits have been described as being pull wires 20 a, 20 b, it should be appreciated that the mechanical energy transmission conduits should not be limited to pull wires. For example, the mechanical transmission conduits 20 a, 20 b may take the form of small diameter tubes or rods that are axially rigid, but laterally flexible. Furthermore, in alternative embodiments of the deflectable catheter 10, non-mechanical, e.g., fluid transmission conduits (e.g., hydraulic or pneumatic), electrical transmission conduits (i.e., electrical wires), electromagnetic energy (e.g., optical) transmission conduits, etc., may be used as energy transmission conduits. Essentially, any energy transmission conduit capable of transmitting any energy from the proximal end 24 to the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 for articulating the distal articulating section 36 into the compound curve 28 may be used.

In order to impart different forces along the distal end 26 of the elongated catheter body 12 to create the compound curve 28, the pull wires 20 a, 20 b are slidably disposed within one or more pull wire lumens 44 extending through the catheter body 12, as best shown in FIG. 4C. The pull wire lumens 44 may be constructed of a low friction material or may simply be unsupported tubular cavities in which the pull wires 20 a, 20 b respectively float. In the illustrated embodiment, the two pull wire lumens 44 a, 44 b are provided in the catheter body 12 in a 180-degree circumferentially spaced apart relationship. In the alternative embodiment where more than two pull wires 20 a, 20 b are used, additional pull wire lumens 44 can be provided in the catheter body 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the pull wire lumens 44 extend proximally from the distal articulating section 36 through the proximal shaft section 40. In alternative embodiments, the intermediate transition section 38 may transition the two pull wire lumens 44 a, 44 b in the distal articulating section 36 to a single hollow stiffening tube (not shown) extending through the proximal shaft section 40.

The proximal ends of the pull wires 20 a, 20 b are operatively coupled to the control mechanism 16 via the energy transmission linkage 18 (shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B), while the distal ends of the pull wires 20 a, 20 b are respectively affixed to the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 at different axial locations, such that operation of the pull wires 20 a, 20 b via manual actuation of the control mechanism 16 applies or modifies a force or tension to distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 at the different axial locations, which may steer or articulate (e.g., up, down, pitch, yaw, or any direction in-between) portions of the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 in the direction of the pull wires 20 a, to create the compound curve 28. The control mechanism 16 comprises springs (not shown) that pre-tension the pull wires 20 a, 20 b, such that the pull wires 20 a, 20 b are always under tension. Thus, the control mechanism 16 serves to increase or decrease the tension on the pull wires 20 a, 20 b to proximally or distally displace the pull wires 20 a, within the respective pull wire lumens 44 a, 44 b.

In the illustrated embodiment, the distal end of one pull wire 20 a is affixed to the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 at the distal extent of the relatively flexible proximal segment 36 a of the distal articulating section 36, such that increased tension on the pull wire 20 a articulates the relatively flexible proximal segment 36 a into the proximal bend 30 of the compound curve 28, while the distal end of the other pull wire 20 b is affixed to the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 at the distal extent of the relatively flexible distal segment 36 c of the distal articulating section 36, such that increased tension on the pull wire 20 b articulates the relatively flexible distal segment 36 c into the distal bend 32 of the compound curve 28. In the illustrated embodiment, the distal articulating section 36 of the deflectable catheter 10 is resilient, such that releasing the pull wires 20 a, 20 b via manual actuation of the control mechanism 16 will release the internal force or tension on the distal articulating section 36, allowing it to return to a straight configuration.

To facilitate affixation of the pull wires 20 a, 20 b to the distal end 26 of the distal articulating section 36, the deflectable catheter 10 further includes a plurality of control rings 46 (shown in phantom), and in this case a proximal control ring 46 a and a distal control ring 46 b (one for each pull wire 20 a, 20 b), secured around the working lumen 42 at different axial locations along the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12. The distal ends of the pull wires 20 a, 20 b are respectively anchored or mounted to the control rings 46 a, 46 b, such that operation of the pull wires 20 a, 20 b via manual actuation of the control mechanism 16 applies a force or tension to the control rings 46 a, 46 b, thereby articulating the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the proximal control ring 46 a is located between the relatively flexible proximal segment 36 a and the relatively rigid proximal segment 36 b of the distal articulating section 36, and the distal control ring 46 b is located between the relatively flexible distal segment 36 c and the relatively rigid distal segment 36 d of the distal articulating section 36. The distal ends of the pull wires 20 a, 20 b are respectively affixed to locations of the control rings 38 a, 38 b that are circumferentially spaced apart by 180 degrees, such that the proximal bend 30 and distal end 32 of the compound curve 28 are disposed in the same plane in response to tensioning of the pull wires 20 a, 20 b. Alternatively, the distal ends of the pull wires 20 a, may be respectively affixed to locations of the control rings 38 a, 38 b that are circumferentially spaced apart by an amount different than 180 degrees (e.g., 90 degrees), such that the proximal bend 30 and distal end 32 of the compound curve 28 are disposed in different planes in response to tensioning of the pull wires 20 a, 20 b.

In alternative embodiments, no control rings are used in the deflectable catheter 10. Instead, the distal ends of the pull wires 20 a, 20 b may be attached directly to a section or portion of the catheter body 12 (e.g., directly anchored between the two layers of the braid), where it may be steered, articulated, or bent. The pull wires 20 a, 20 b may be crimped, soldered, welded or interlocked in any suitable manner to specific locations along the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12, and in this embodiment, at one location between the relatively flexible proximal segment 36 a and the relatively rigid proximal segment 36 b of the distal articulating section 36, and at the other location between the relatively flexible distal segment 36 c and the relatively rigid distal segment 36 d of the distal articulating section 36.

In the illustrated embodiment, the energy transmission linkage 18 is a mechanical energy transmission linkage operably coupled between the proximal ends of the mechanical energy transmission conduits 20 a, 20 b (and in this case, the two pull wires 20 a, 20 b) and the control mechanism 16 (or alternatively the drive unit in the case where the compound curve is formed automatically in the distal end 26 of the elongated catheter body 12), and the control mechanism 16 is configured for applying a single mechanical energy input to the mechanical energy transmission linkage 18. In this case, the mechanical energy transmission linkage 18 is configured for, in response to the single mechanical energy input applied by the control mechanism 16, simultaneously applying a plurality of the mechanical energy outputs respectively to the proximal ends of the mechanical energy transmitting conduits 20 a, 20 b at the preset control parameter ratio. Tensioning elements (e.g., springs) may be incorporated into the control mechanism 16 and/or mechanical transmission linkage 18, such that the pull wires 20 a, 20 b are constantly tensioned, and thus, actuation of the control mechanism 16 serves to increase or decrease the tensions on the pull wires 20 a, 20 b. Further details discussing various embodiments of the mechanical transmission linkage 18 will be set forth below.

Since the mechanical energy transmission conduits 20 a, 20 b are two pull wires in the illustrated embodiment, the mechanical energy outputs are simultaneously applied by the mechanical energy transmission linkage 18 to the proximal ends of the pull wires 20 a, 20 b by applying tensile outputs or linear displacement outputs to the pull wires 20 a, In this case, the preset control parameter ratio may take the form of a preset pull wire tension ratio (the ratio between the two tensile outputs applied to the proximal ends of the two pull wires 20 a, 20 b (i.e., pull wire tension outputs)) or a preset pull wire displacement ratio (in this case, the ratio between linear displacement outputs applied to the proximal ends of the two pull wires 20 a, 20 b (i.e., pull wire displacement outputs). Selection of either a preset pull wire tension ratio or a preset pull wire displacement ratio as the control parameter ratio may depend on the desired performance of the compound curve 28 assumed by the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12. For example, if it is desired that distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 consistently assume and maintain the compound curve 28 regardless of dynamic forces (e.g., external forces applied by surrounding tissue on the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12, internal forces applied by the catheter body 12 to the pull wires 20, or internal forces applied to the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 during transmission of the working catheter or guidewire through the portion of the working lumen 42 adjacent the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12), then it may be desirable to select the preset pull wire displacement ratio as the control parameter ratio. In contrast, if it desirable to provide a degree of flexibility in the compound curve 28, such that the working catheter or guidewire can more easily be transmitted through the working lumen 42 adjacent the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12, then it may be desirable to select the preset pull wire tension ratio as the control parameter ratio.

In the alternative embodiment where the energy transmission conduits 20 a, are fluidic energy transmission conduits, the energy transmission linkage 18 may be a hydraulic/pneumatic energy transmission linkage configured for, in response to the single mechanical energy input applied by the control mechanism 16, simultaneously applying a plurality of fluidic energy outputs respectively to the proximal ends of the fluidic energy transmitting conduits at the preset control parameter ratio. In this case, the preset control parameter ratio may, e.g., be a preset volume ratio, preset pressure ratio, preset piston area ratio, etc. In the alternative embodiment wherein the energy transmission conduits 20 a, 20 b are electrical wires, the energy transmission linkage 18 may be an electrical energy transmission linkage configured for, in response to the single electrical energy input applied by the control mechanism 16, simultaneously applying a plurality of electrical energy outputs respectively to the proximal ends of the pull wires 20 a, 20 b at the preset control parameter ratio. In this case, the preset control parameter ratio may, e.g., be a preset amperage ratio, preset voltage ratio, etc.

As briefly discussed above, the optional control parameter ratio adjustment mechanism 22 (shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B) is configured for adjusting the preset control parameter ratio of the energy transmission linkage 18, such that the relative extent of the proximal bend 30 and distal bend 32 of the fully formed compound curve 28 assumed by the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 can be set. For example, the values of a control parameter associated with the respective energy transmission conduits 20, and in the illustrated embodiment, the values of the pull wire tension or pull wire displacement associated with the pull wires 20 a, 20 b, can be adjusted by the control parameter ratio adjustment mechanism 22 to decrease the distal bend 32 of the fully formed compound curve 28 assumed by the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12.

For example, as shown in FIG. 5A, the extent of the distal bend 32 of the fully formed compound curve 28 has been decreased from 180 degrees to 135 degrees, while the extent of the proximal bend 30 remains unchanged at 90 degrees. In this case, the ratio of the tension or displacement of the pull wire 20 a associated with the proximal bend of the compound curve 28 over the tension or displacement of the pull wire 20 b associated with the distal bend 32 of the compound curve 28 has been increased by the control parameter ratio adjustment mechanism 22 (e.g., from 1:2 to 2:3). Although the extent of the distal bend 32 of the fully formed compound curve 28 has been illustrated as being adjusted from 180 degrees to 135 degrees, the control parameter ratio adjustment mechanism 22 may be operated to adjust the distal bend 32 of the fully formed compound curve 28 to any angle, but generally less than 180 degrees, e.g., 160 degrees, 120 degrees, etc.

As another example, as shown in FIG. 5B, the extent of the proximal bend 30 of the fully formed compound curve 28 has been increased from 90 degrees to 135 degrees, while the extent of the distal bend 32 remains unchanged at 180 degrees. In this case, the ratio of the tension or displacement of the pull wire 20 a associated with the proximal bend 30 of the compound curve 28 over the tension or displacement of the pull wire 20 b associated with the distal bend 32 of the compound curve 28 has been increased by the control parameter ratio adjustment mechanism 22 (e.g., from 1:2 to 2:3). As shown in FIG. 5C, the extent of the proximal bend 30 of the fully formed compound curve 28 has been increased from 90 degrees to 45 degrees, while the extent of the distal bend 32 remains unchanged at 180 degrees. In this case, the ratio of the tension or displacement of the pull wire 20 a associated with the proximal bend 30 of the compound curve 28 over the tension or displacement of the pull wire 20 b associated with the distal bend 32 of the compound curve 28 has been decreased by the control parameter ratio adjustment mechanism 22 (e.g., from 1:2 to 1:4).

As will be described in further detail below, the control parameter ratio adjustment mechanism 22 may comprise an external component, e.g., a dial, slider, lever, etc., that can be manipulated by an operator, and internal components that couple the external component of the control parameter ratio adjustment mechanism 22 to the energy transmission linkage 18.

Referring now to FIGS. 6A and 6B, the control mechanism 16 is configured for selectively providing a coarse adjustment and a fine adjustment of the tension on the pull wires 20 a, 20 b, and thus, providing a means of coarsely or finely adjusting the transformation of the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 between the straight configuration and the curved configuration.

To this end, the control mechanism 16 comprises a collar sleeve 48 disposed about the handle 14 and a linear gear 50 slidably disposed within a cavity 52 of the handle 14. The collar sleeve 48 may be both linearly and rotationally displaced relative to the handle 14. The linear gear 50 is rotatably restrained by the handle 14, such that linear displacement of the linear gear 50 within the handle 14 constitutes the only freedom of movement of the linear gear 50 relative to the handle 14. The collar sleeve 48 comprises a threaded bore 54, and the linear gear 50 comprises a plurality of teeth 56 extending along the length of the linear gear 50. The control mechanism 16 further comprises a single pull wire 58, the proximal end of which is affixed to the linear gear 50, and the distal end of which is operably coupled to the pull wires 20 a, 20 b through the mechanical transmission linkage 18.

The threaded bore 54 of the collar sleeve 48 engages the teeth 56 of the linear gear 50, such that the threaded bore 44 of the collar sleeve 48 rides along the teeth 56 of the linear gear 50, thereby effecting fine (i.e., relatively minute) and continuous longitudinal translation of the linear gear 50 relative to the handle 14 in response to rotation of the collar sleeve 48 about the handle 14 in the clockwise or counterclockwise direction. In particular, manual rotation of the collar sleeve 48 (as shown by the arrow 60) in one of a clockwise direction and a counterclockwise direction will finely translate the linear gear 50 in the proximal direction (shown by the arrow 62 a). In turn, fine translation of the linear gear 50 proximally will finely displace the single pull wire 58 proximally in opposition to the spring force of the passive tensioning elements (not shown) in the handle 14 and resiliency of the catheter body 12, which in turn, will finely increase tension the pull wires 20 a, 20 b, thereby finely tightening the compound curve assumed by the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12. In contrast, manual rotation of the collar sleeve 48 in the other of the clockwise direction and a counterclockwise direction will finely translate the linear gear 50 in the distal direction (shown by the arrow 62 b). In turn, fine translation of the linear gear 50 distally will allow spring force of the passive tensioning elements in the handle 14 and the resiliency of the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 to finely translate the single pull wire 58 distally, which in turn, will finely relax the pull wires 20 a, 20 b, thereby finely allowing the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 to return to its straight or relaxed configuration.

The threaded bore 54 of the collar sleeve 48 also engages the teeth 56 of the linear gear 50, such that the threaded bore 44 of the collar sleeve 48 is locked to the teeth 56 of the linear gear 50, thereby effecting coarse (i.e., relatively large) continuous longitudinal translation of the linear gear 50 relative to the handle 14 in response to linear displacement of the collar sleeve 48 relative to the handle 14. Linear displacement of the collar sleeve 48 in the proximal direction (shown by the arrow 64 a) will coarsely translate the linear gear 50 in the proximal direction (shown by the arrow 62 a). In turn, coarse translation of the linear gear 50 proximally will coarsely displace the single pull wire 58 proximally in opposition to the spring force of the passive tensioning elements (not shown) in the handle 14 and resiliency of the catheter body 12, which in turn, will coarsely increase tension on the pull wires 20 a, 20 b, thereby coarsely tightening the compound curve assumed by the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12. In contrast, linear displacement of the collar sleeve 48 in the distal direction (shown by the arrow 64 b) will coarsely translate the linear gear 50 in the distal direction (shown by the arrow 62 b). In turn, coarse translation of the linear gear 50 distally will allow spring force of the passive tensioning elements in the handle 14 and the resiliency of the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 to coarsely translate the single pull wire 58 distally, which in turn, will coarsely relax the pull wires 20 a, 20 b, thereby coarsely allowing the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 to return to its straight or relaxed configuration.

Although the control mechanism 16 has been described as being capable of both finely and coarsely placing the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 between a straight configuration and a compound curve, it should be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the control mechanism 16 may simply be capable of transforming the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 between a straight or relaxed configuration and a compound curve without coarse or fine adjustments. Furthermore, in the case where the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 can assume multiple compound curves, multiple control mechanisms 16 may be provided, such that the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 may be transformed between any of the compound curves or between the compound curves and a straight relaxed configuration. For example, if the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 is capable of assuming two compound curves, two control mechanisms can be provided, the first one of which can be coupled to two pull wires for transforming the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 between a first compound curve and a second compound curve or straight or relaxed configuration, and the second one of which can be coupled to another two pull wires for independently transforming the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12 between the second compound curve and a first compound curve or straight or relaxed configuration.

Referring now to FIG. 7 , one exemplary embodiment of a mechanical energy transmission linkage 18 a will be described. The mechanical energy transmission linkage 18 a is configured for, in response to an input force F by the control mechanism 16 (shown in FIG. 1 ), simultaneously applying two tensile outputs T_(a), T_(b) respectively to the proximal ends of the two pull wires 20 a, 20 b in accordance with a preset pull wire tension ratio.

The mechanical energy transmission linkage 18 a comprises a plurality of moment arms 100 to create a preset pull wire tension ratio between the pull wires 20, and in particular, a first moment arm 100 a and a second moment arm 100 b that respectively rotate about a first axis 104 a and a second axis 104 b to create a preset pull wire tension ratio between the two pull wires 20 a, 20 b. The moment arms 100 a, 100 b respectively have lengths L_(a) and L_(b). The proximal end of the first pull wire 20 a is operably coupled to the first moment arm 100 a, while the proximal end of the second pull wire 20 b is operably coupled to the second moment arm 100 b.

The mechanical energy transmission linkage 18 a further comprises a drive assembly 102 operably coupled to the moment arms 100 a, 100 b. The control mechanism 16 is configured for applying a linear input force F, and in this case a tensile input, to the drive assembly 102 in a manner that creates the same moment M on the moment arms 100 a, 100 b, such that the first moment arm 100 a applies a first tensile output T_(a) to the proximal end of the first pull wire 20 a, and the second moment arm 100 b applies a second tensile output T_(b) to the proximal end of the second pull wire 20 b, in accordance with the preset pull wire tension ratio.

It can be appreciated that the first tensile output T_(a) is a linear function of the length L_(a) and moment M of the first moment arm 100 a, in accordance with the equation: [1] T_(a)=M/L_(a), and similarly, the second tensile output T_(b) is a linear function of the length a L_(b) and moment M of the second moment arm 100 b, in accordance with the equation: [2] T_(b)=M/L_(b). The ratio between the first tensile output T_(a) and the second tensile output T_(b) can be characterized as:

$\begin{matrix} {{T_{a}/T_{b}} = {\frac{M/L_{a}}{M/L_{b}} = {L_{b}/{L_{a}.}}}} & \lbrack 3\rbrack \end{matrix}$

Thus, the pull wire tension output ratio of the mechanical energy transmission linkage 18 a can be preset by setting the respective lengths of the moment arms 100 a, 100 b, with the tensile outputs T_(a), T_(b) being inversely proportional to the lengths L_(a), L_(b) of the moment arms 100 a, 100 b with which they are respectively associated. In the illustrated embodiment, the respective lengths L_(a), L_(b) of the moment arms 100 a, 100 b are unequal, so that the pull wire tension ratio of the mechanical energy transmission linkage 18 a is different than unity.

In the illustrated embodiment, the length L_(a) of the first moment arm 100 a is less than the length L_(b) of the second moment arm 100 b, such that the first tensile output T_(a) applied to the proximal end of the first pull wire 20 a is greater than the second tensile output T_(b) applied to the proximal end of the second pull wire 20 b (i.e., the pull wire tension ratio of the mechanical energy transmission linkage 18 a will be greater than unity). As a result, because the pull wires 20 a, 20 b are respectively associated with the proximal bend and the distal end 32 of the compound curve 28 assumed by the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12, the extent of the proximal bend 30 will be greater than the extent of the distal bend 32.

Of course, in the alternative case where the length L_(a) of the first moment arm 100 a is greater than the length L_(b) of the second moment arm 100 b the first tensile output T_(a) applied to the proximal end of the first pull wire 20 a will be less than the second tensile output T_(b) applied to the proximal end of the second pull wire 20 b (i.e., the pull wire tension ratio of the mechanical energy transmission linkage 18 a will be less than unity). As a result, because the pull wires 20 a, 20 b are respectively associated with the proximal bend and the distal end 32 of the compound curve 28 assumed by the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12, the extent of the proximal bend 30 will be less than the extent of the distal bend 32.

It should be appreciated that if more than two pull wires 20 a, 20 b are used (i.e., the complex curve 28 has more than two bends), the mechanical transmission linkage 18 a may be modified to include additional moment arms 100 (i.e., one additional moment arm for each additional pull wire) to which the proximal ends of the additional pull wires 20 b are operably coupled, and to which the control mechanism 16 applies the same moment M.

Referring now to FIG. 8 , one specific embodiment of a mechanical transmission linkage 18 a(1) that simultaneously applies two tensile outputs T_(a), T_(b) respectively to the proximal ends of the two pull wires 20 a, 20 b in accordance with a preset pull wire tension ratio will be described.

The mechanical transmission linkage 18 a(1) comprises a pulley 106 and a yoke 108 that correspond to the drive assembly 102 of the mechanical transmission linkage 18 a of FIG. 7 . The pulley 106 comprises an axle 110 to which the control mechanism 16 applies the linear input force F (in this case, a tensile input), and a wheel 112 around which the proximal end of the first pull wire 20 a is looped. The yoke 108 comprises two arms 114 (only one illustrated) between which the axle 110 of the pulley 106 is rotatably affixed.

The mechanical transmission linkage 18 a further comprises a lever 116 having lever arm 118 and a hinge 120 (corresponding to the axis 104 in FIG. 7 ) about which the lever arm 118 rotates (shown by the arrow 122). The proximal end of the first pull wire is engaged to the lever arm 118 at a first anchor point 124 a to create the first moment arm 100 a illustrated in FIG. 7 (with the length L_(a) of the first moment arm 100 a being equal to the distance between the hinge 120 and the first anchor point 124 a), and the proximal end of the second pull wire 20 b is engaged to the lever arm 118 at a second anchor point 124 b to create the second moment arm 100 b illustrated in FIG. 7 (with the length L_(b) of the second moment arm 100 b being equal to the distance between the hinge 120 and the second anchor point 124 b).

Thus, when the control mechanism 16 applies the tensile input F to the axle 108 of the pulley 106 via the yoke 110, the first tensile output T_(a) will be applied to the proximal end of the first pull wire 20 a by the lever arm 118 at the first anchor point 124 a, while the second tensile output T_(b) will be applied to the proximal end of the second pull wire 20 b by the lever arm 118 at the second anchor point 124 b, in accordance with the preset pull wire tension ratio. The preset pull wire tension ratio of the mechanical transmission linkage 18 a illustrated in FIG. 8 (i.e., the ratio between the tensile outputs T_(a), T_(b)) is defined in equation [3] above. The first anchor point 124 a is located between the second anchor point 124 b and the hinge 120, such that the length L_(a) of the first moment arm 100 a (shown in FIG. 7 ) associated with the first pull wire 20 a is less than the length L_(b) of the second moment arm 100 b (shown in FIG. 7 ) associated with the second pull wire 20 b. Thus, the preset pull wire ratio of the first tensile output T_(a) over the second tensile output T_(b) will always be greater than unity in this embodiment.

In the illustrated embodiment, the preset pull wire tension ratio of the mechanical transmission linkage 18 a is adjustable. In particular, the proximal end of the first pull wire 20 a is slidably engaged to the lever arm 118, such that the first anchor point 124 a is adjustable along a length of the lever arm 118 to adjust the length L_(a) of the first moment arm 100 a, and thus, the preset pull wire tension ratio of the first tensile output T_(a) over the second tensile output T_(b). To this end, the mechanical transmission linkage 18 a further comprises a wire tension ratio adjustment mechanism 22 a configured for adjusting the first anchor point 124 a along the length of the lever arm 118.

To this end, the wire tension ratio adjustment mechanism 22 a comprises a slider carriage 126 to which the proximal end of the first pull wire 20 a is affixed. The slider carriage 126 is configured for being displaced along the lever arm 118 to adjust the first anchor point 124 a along the length of the lever arm 118. The lever arm 118 has a lengthwise slot 128 and the slider carriage 126 has a protuberance 130 (corresponding to the first anchor point 124 a) to which the proximal end of the first pull wire 20 a is affixed. The protuberance 130 of the slider carriage 126 is configured for slidably engaging the slot 128 of the lever arm 118, so that the first anchor point 124 a may be moved up or down the slot 128 of the lever arm 118. In the illustrated embodiment, the slider carriage 126 comprises a first collar 132 a and a second collar 132 b transversely straddling the lever arm 118. The wire tension ratio adjustment mechanism 22 a further comprises a first rod 134 a and a second rod 134 b respectively disposed through the first collar 132 a and the second collar 132 b. The collars 132 a, 132 b are interiorly threaded, while the rods 134 a, 134 b are exteriorly threaded, such that the first collar 132 a and the first rod 134 a are threadedly engaged with other, and the second collar 132 b and the second rod 134 b are threadedly engaged with other. Thus, rotation of the rods 130 a, 130 b along their axes (shown by the arrows 136 a, 136 b) will linearly displace the slider carriage 126 up or down (shown by the arrow 138) along the rods 130 depending on the direction of rotation of the rods 130 a, 130 b.

The wire tension ratio adjustment mechanism 22 a further comprises circular drive gear 140 a affixed to the first rod 134 a, and a circular idle gear 140 b affixed to the second rod 134 b. The circular drive gear 140 a and the circular idle gear 140 b are engaged with each other, such that rotation of the first rod 134 a (shown by the arrow 134 a) causes the second rod 134 b to rotate in the opposite direction (shown by the arrow 134 b) via the engagement between the circular drive gear 140 a and the circular idle gear 140 b, thereby linearly displacing the slider carriage 126 along the lever arm 118 (shown by the arrow 136). Because the rotation of the drive gear 140 a, and thus the first rod 134 a, in one direction causes the rotation of the idle gear 140 b, and thus the second rod 134 b, in an opposite direction, the threads on the first rod 134 a is counter wound to the threads on the second rod 134 b, such that rotation of the rods 134 work in unison to linearly displace the slider carriage 126 along the lever arm 118. The hinge 120 of the lever 116 is affixed relative to a frame 146, and the threaded rods 134 are rotatably affixed to the frame 146. The wire tension ratio adjustment mechanism 22 a further comprises a control dial 142 affixed to the first rod 134 a, such that rotation of the control dial 138 in a direction (shown by the arrow 144) rotates the first rod 134 a (shown by the arrow 136 a), and thus the second rod 134 b (shown by the arrow 136 b) via the engagement between the circular drive gear 140 a and circular idle gear 140 b, ultimately linearly displacing the slider carriage 126 along the lever arm 118. The control dial 142 may be disposed on the exterior of the handle 14 (shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B).

Referring now to FIG. 9 , another exemplary embodiment of a mechanical energy transmission linkage 18 b will be described. The mechanical transmission linkage 18 b is configured, in response to an input force F by the control mechanism 16 (shown in FIG. 1 ), for simultaneously applying two linear displacement outputs D_(a), D_(b) respectively to the proximal ends of the two pull wires 20 a, 20 b in accordance with a preset pull wire displacement ratio. This should be contrasted with the mechanical energy transmission linkage 18 a illustrated in FIG. 7 , which simultaneously applies two tensile outputs T_(a), T_(b) respectively to the proximal ends of the two pull wires 20 a, 20 b in accordance with a preset pull wire tension ratio.

The mechanical energy transmission linkage 18 b utilizes a plurality of cams 150 to create a preset pull wire linear displacement ratio between the pull wires 20, and in particular, two cams 150 a, 150 b that transform rotational motion (shown by arrows 154 a, 154 b) into linear motion to create a preset pull wire linear displacement ratio between the two pull wires 20 a, 20 b. The proximal end of the first pull wire 20 a is operably coupled to the first cam 150 a, while the proximal end of the second pull wire 20 b is operably coupled to the second cam 150 b. The mechanical energy transmission linkage 18 b further comprises a drive assembly 152 operably coupled to the cams 150 a, 150 b. The control mechanism 16 is configured for applying an input force F to the drive assembly 152, such that the first cam 150 a applies a linear displacement output D_(a) to the proximal end of the first pull wire 20 a, and the second cam 150 b applies a linear displacement output D_(b) to the proximal end of the second pull wire 20 b, in accordance with the preset pull wire displacement ratio. That is, the cams 150 a, 150 b transform rotational energy provided to the cams 150 a, 150 b by the drive assembly 152 into linear motion to apply linear displacement outputs of D_(a), D_(b) to the proximal ends of the respective first and second pull wires 20 a, 20 b.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first cam 150 a comprises a first linear element 156 a to which the proximal end of the first pull wire 20 a is affixed, and a first rotary element 158 a engaged with the drive assembly 152. The second cam 150 b comprises a second linear element 156 b to which the proximal end of the second pull wire 20 b is affixed, and a second rotary element 158 b engaged with the drive assembly 152. The rotary elements 158 a, 158 b respectively have radii R_(a) and R_(b). The drive assembly 152 rotates the first cam 150 a and the second cam 150 b at the same angular displacement α. In this case, it can be appreciated that the first linear displacement D_(a) is a linear function of the radius R_(a) of the first cam 150 a, in accordance with the equation:

$\begin{matrix} {{D_{a} = \frac{2\pi R_{a}\alpha}{360}},} & \lbrack 4\rbrack \end{matrix}$

and similarly, the second linear displacement D_(b) is a linear function of the radius R_(b) of the second cam 150 b, in accordance with the equation:

$\begin{matrix} {D_{b} = {\frac{2\pi R_{b}\alpha}{360}.}} & \lbrack 5\rbrack \end{matrix}$

The ratio between the first linear displacement D_(a) and the second linear displacement D_(b) can be characterized as:

$\begin{matrix} {{D_{a}/D_{b}} = {\frac{\frac{2\pi R_{a}\alpha}{360}}{\frac{2\pi R_{b}\alpha}{360}} = {R_{a}/{R_{b}.}}}} & \lbrack 6\rbrack \end{matrix}$

Thus, the displacement ratio of the mechanical energy transmission linkage 18 b can be preset by setting the respective radii R_(a), R_(b) of the rotary elements 158 a, 158 b, with the linear displacement outputs D_(a), D_(b) being directly proportional to the radii R_(a), R_(b) of the rotary elements 158 a, 158 b of the cams 150 a, 150 b with which they are respectively associated. In the illustrated embodiment, the respective radii R_(a), R_(b) of the rotary elements 158 a, 158 b are unequal, so that the pull wire displacement ratio of the mechanical energy transmission linkage 18 b is different than unity.

In the illustrated embodiment, the radius R_(a) of the first rotary element 158 a is greater than the radius R_(b) of the second rotary element 158 b, such that the first linear displacement output D_(a) applied to the proximal end of the first pull wire 20 a is greater than the second linear displacement output D_(b) applied to the proximal end of the second pull wire 20 b (i.e., the pull wire displacement ratio of the mechanical energy transmission linkage 18 b will be greater than unity). As a result, because the pull wires 20 a, 20 b are respectively associated with the proximal bend 30 and the distal end 32 of the compound curve 28 assumed by the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12, the extent of the proximal bend 30 will be greater than the extent of the distal bend 32.

Of course, in the alternative case where the radius R_(a) of the first rotary element 158 a is less than the radius R_(b) of the second rotary element 158 b, the first linear displacement output D_(a) applied to the proximal end of the first pull wire 20 a will be less than the second linear displacement output D_(b) applied to the proximal end of the second pull wire 20 b (i.e., the pull wire displacement ratio of the mechanical energy transmission linkage 18 b will be less than unity). As a result, because the pull wires 20 a, 20 b are respectively associated with the proximal bend 30 and the distal end 32 of the compound curve 28 assumed by the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12, the extent of the proximal bend 30 will be less than the extent of the distal bend 32.

It should be appreciated that if more than two pull wires 20 a, 20 b are used (i.e., the complex curve 28 has more than two bends), the mechanical transmission linkage 18 b may be modified to include additional cams 150 (i.e., one additional cam for each additional pull wire) to which the proximal ends of the additional pull wires 20 a, 20 b are operably coupled, and to which the control mechanism 16 applies the input force F via the drive assembly 152.

Referring now to FIG. 10 , one specific embodiment of a mechanical transmission linkage 18 b(1) that simultaneously applies two linear displacement outputs D_(a), D_(b) respectively to the proximal ends of the two pull wires 20 a, 20 b in accordance with a preset pull wire displacement ratio will be described.

The mechanical transmission linkage 18 b(1) comprises a linear drive rack 160 that corresponds to the drive assembly 152 of the mechanical transmission linkage 18 b of FIG. 9 . The control mechanism 16 (shown in FIG. 1 ) may be coupled to an intervening element for applying the input force F (and in this case, a linear input force) to the linear drive rack 160. The linear drive rack 160 has a first geared side 162 a and a second geared side 162 b opposite the first geared side 162 a. The mechanical transmission linkage 18 b(1) further comprises a first linear gear 164 a and a second linear gear 164 b that respectively correspond to the first linear element 156 a and the second linear element 156 b of the mechanical transmission linkage 18 b of FIG. 9 , a first rotary gear 166 a and a second rotary gear 166 b that correspond to the first rotary element 158 a of the mechanical transmission linkage 18 b of FIG. 9 , and a third rotary gear 166 c that corresponds to the second rotary element 158 b of the mechanical transmission linkage 18 b of FIG. 9 . The first linear gear 164 a is affixed to the proximal end of the first pull wire and the second linear gear 164 b is affixed to the proximal end of the second pull wire 20 b. The second rotary gear 166 b is fixed in relation to the first rotary gear 166 a. The first rotary gear 166 a is engaged with the first linear gear 164 a. The second rotary gear 166 b is engaged with the first geared side 162 a of the linear drive rack 160. The third rotary gear 166 c is engaged between the second linear gear 164 b and the second geared side 162 b of the linear drive rack 160.

When the control mechanism 16 applies the input force F to the linear drive rack 160, the linear drive rack 160 is linearly displaced (shown by the arrow 168), such that the first rotary gear 166 a and the second rotary gear 166 b rotate in unison to linearly displace the first linear gear 164 a, thereby applying the first linear displacement output D_(a) to the proximal end of the first pull wire 20 a, and the third rotary gear 166 c rotates in an opposite direction to 166 a, 166 b (shown by the arrows 170 a, 170 b) to linearly displace the second linear gear 164 b, thereby applying the second linear displacement output D_(b) to the proximal end of the second pull wire 20 b, in accordance with the preset pull wire displacement ratio.

The preset pull wire displacement ratio of the mechanical transmission linkage 18 b(1) illustrated in FIG. 10 (i.e., the ratio between the first linear displacement output D_(a) and the second linear displacement output D_(b)) is defined in equation [6] above. The ratio between the first linear displacement output D_(a) and the second linear displacement output D_(b) can also be defined as the number of teeth of the first rotary gear 166 a divided by the number of teeth of the third rotary gear 166 c. The first rotary gear 166 a has a radius R_(a), and each of the second rotary gear 166 b and the third rotary gear 166 c has a radius R_(b). Because the second rotary gear 166 b and the third rotary gear 166 c have the same radius R_(b) (i.e., the number of teeth in the second rotary gear 166 b is the same as the number of teeth in the third rotary gear 166 c), the angular displacements a that the second rotary gear 166 b (and thus, the first rotary gear 166 a) and the third rotary gear 166 c are displaced by linear displacement of the linear drive rack 160 will always be the same. However, the first rotary gear 166 a has a radius R_(a) that is different from the radius R_(b) of the third gear 164 c (i.e., the number of teeth in the first rotary gear 166 a is different from the radius R_(b) of the third gear 164 c). Thus, the preset pull wire linear displacement ratio of the first linear displacement D_(a) over the second linear displacement D_(b) will be different than unity. In this embodiment, the radius R_(a) of the first rotary gear 166 a is less than the radius R_(b) of the third gear 164 c, in which case, the preset pull wire linear displacement ratio of the first linear displacement D_(a) over the second linear displacement D_(b) will be less than unity. In alternative embodiments, the radius R_(a) of the first rotary gear 166 a may be greater than the radius R_(b) of the third gear 164 c, in which case, the preset pull wire linear displacement ratio of the first linear displacement D_(a) over the second linear displacement D_(b) will be greater than unity.

Referring now to FIGS. 11-16 , another specific embodiment of a mechanical transmission linkage 18 b(2) that simultaneously applies two linear displacement outputs D_(a), D_(b) respectively to the proximal ends of the two pull wires 20 a, 20 b in accordance with a preset pull wire displacement ratio will be described.

The mechanical transmission linkage 18 b(2) comprises an axle 174 and a yoke 176 that corresponds to the drive assembly 152 of the mechanical transmission linkage 18 b of FIG. 9 . As best shown in FIGS. 11-14 , the yoke 176 comprises two arms 178 between which the axle 174 is rotatably affixed. The control mechanism 16 (shown in FIG. 1 ) is coupled to the yoke 176 for applying the input force F, and in particular a tensile input, to the axle 174.

The mechanical transmission linkage 18 b(2) further comprises a first belt 180 a and a second belt 180 b that respectively correspond to the first linear element 156 a and the second linear element 156 b of the mechanical transmission linkage 18 b of FIG. 9 . As best shown in FIGS. 15 and 16 , the mechanical transmission linkage 18 b(2) further comprises a wheel assembly 182 having a first annular groove 184 a and a second annular groove 184 that respectively correspond to the first rotary element 158 a and the second rotary element 158 b of the mechanical transmission linkage 18 b of FIG. 9 . The first belt 180 a is looped around the first annular groove 184 a of the wheel assembly 182 to form a first distal end 186 a coupled to the proximal end of the first pull wire 20 a and a second distal end 186 b coupled to a first anchor point 188 a, and the second belt 180 b is looped around the second annular groove 184 b of the wheel assembly 182 to form a first distal end 186 c coupled to the proximal end of the second pull wire 20 b and a second distal end 186 d coupled to a second anchor point 188 b. The first belt 180 a and second belt 180 b are looped around the respective first and second annular grooves 184 a, 184 b in the same rotational direction.

Thus, when the control mechanism 16 applies the tensile input F to the axle 174, the wheel assembly 182 rotates with the axle 174 (shown by the arrow 190), and thus, the first annular groove 184 a rotates to linearly displace the first belt 180 a, thereby applying the first linear displacement output D_(a) to the proximal end of the first pull wire and the second annular groove 184 b rotates to linearly displace the second belt 180 b, thereby applying the second linear displacement output D_(b) to the proximal end of the second pull wire 20 b, in accordance with the preset pull wire tension ratio.

The preset pull wire displacement ratio of the mechanical transmission linkage 18 b(2) illustrated in FIGS. 11-16 (i.e., the ratio between the first linear displacement output D_(a) and the second linear displacement output D_(b)) is defined in equation [6] above. As best shown in FIG. 16 , the first looped belt 180 a has a first radius R_(a) (i.e., the first annular groove 184 a has an effective radius R_(a)), and the second looped belt 180 b has a second radius R_(b) (i.e., the second annular groove 184 b has an effective radius R_(b)). Because the first annular groove 184 a and the second annular groove 184 b rotate together about the same axle 174, the angular displacements a that the looped belts 180 a, 180 b are displaced by rotation of the axle 174 will always be the same. However, the radius R_(a) of the first annular groove 184 a is different from the radius R_(b) of the second annular groove 184 b. Thus, the preset pull wire linear displacement ratio of the first linear displacement D_(a) over the second linear displacement D_(b) will be different than unity. In this embodiment, the radius R_(a) of the first annular groove 184 a is less than the radius R_(b) of the second annular groove 184 b, in which case, the preset pull wire linear displacement ratio of the first linear displacement D_(a) over the second linear displacement D_(b) will be less than unity. In alternative embodiments, the radius R_(a) of the first annular groove 184 a may be greater than the radius R_(b) of the second annular groove 184 b, in which case, the preset pull wire linear displacement ratio of the first linear displacement D_(a) over the second linear displacement D_(b) will be greater than unity.

In the illustrated embodiment, the preset pull wire tension ratio of the mechanical transmission linkage 18 b(2) is adjustable. In particular, the effective radii R_(a), R_(b) of the annular grooves 184 a, 184 b are adjustable. As best shown in FIGS. 11-14 , the mechanical transmission linkage 18 b(2) further comprises a pull wire displacement ratio adjustment mechanism 22 b configured for adjusting the effective radii R_(a), R_(b) of both the annular grooves 182 a, 182 b in an inversely proportional manner.

To this end, the wheel assembly 182 comprises a first outer plate 192 a and a second outer plate 192 b disposed on the axle 174. As best shown in FIGS. 13 and 15 , the outer plates 192 a, 192 b respectively have convex conical surfaces 194 a, 194 b that face each other. The wheel assembly 182 further comprises an inner plate 196 disposed on the axle 174 between the outer plates 192 a, 192 b. As best shown in FIGS. 13 and 15 , the inner plate 196 has opposing first and second convex conical surfaces 198 a, 198 b that respectively face the outer places 194 a, 194 b. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer plates 192 a, 192 b, as well as the inner plate 196, are rotatably affixed to the axle 174 (i.e., the outer plates 192 a, 192 b and inner plate 196 rotate with the axle 174). The outer plates 192 a, 192 b are laterally affixed to the axle 174 (i.e., the outer plates 192 a, 192 b cannot laterally slide along the axle 174), while the inner plate 198 is slidably disposed laterally along the axle 174 (i.e., the inner plate 198 can laterally slide along the axle 174). The inner plate 196 may, e.g., have a protruding pin (not shown) that slides along a groove (not shown) of the axle 174 to allow the inner plate 198 to laterally slide along the axle 174, while preventing the inner plate 198 from rotating relative to the axle 174.

As best shown in FIG. 15 , the first belt 180 a has inwardly angled opposing surfaces 200 a that respectively conform to the convex conical surface 194 a of the first outer plate 192 a and the first convex conical surface 198 a of the inner plate 196, thereby setting a first radius of the first looped belt 180 a; and the second belt 180 b has inwardly angled opposing surfaces 200 b that respectively conform to the convex conical surface 198 b of the second outer plate 192 b and the second convex conical surface 198 b of the inner plate 196, thereby setting a second radius of the second looped belt 180 b. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the belts 178 has a trapezoidal cross-section that forms the respective angled opposing surfaces 200.

The pull wire displacement ratio adjustment mechanism 22 b is configured for laterally sliding the inner plate 196 along the axle 174 (shown by the arrow 202 in FIG. 15 ). In the illustrated embodiment shown in FIGS. 11-14 , the pull wire displacement ratio adjustment mechanism 22 b comprises a slider carriage 204 configured for being displaced along a direction of the axle 174. The pull wire displacement ratio adjustment mechanism 22 b further comprises a pair of rails 206 extending in the direction along the axle 174. The slider carriage 204 is configured for sliding along the pair of rails 206. As best shown in FIG. 13 , the slider carriage 204 has a groove 208 in which an outer radial portion of the inner plate 196 is disposed, such that displacement of the slider carriage 204 correspondingly slides the inner plate 196 along the axle 174. The pull wire displacement ratio adjustment mechanism 22 b may further comprise a control slider (not shown) affixed to the slider carriage 204, such that sliding the control slider slides the slider carriage 204. Such control slider may be disposed on the exterior of the handle 14.

As a result, the width of the first annular groove 184 a is modified, thereby modifying the radius R_(a) of the first looped belt 180 a, such that the first pull wire displacement D_(a) changes, while the width of the second annular groove 184 b is modified in inverse proportion to the modified width of the first annular groove 184 b, thereby modifying the radius R_(b) of the second looped belt 180 b in inverse proportion to the modified radius R_(a) of the first looped belt 180 a, such that the second pull wire displacement D_(b) is modified in inverse proportion to the first pull wire displacement D_(a).

For example, as best shown in FIG. 15 , when the inner plate 196 is slid along the axle 174 (rightward along the arrow 202), the width of the first annular groove 184 a decreases, while the width of the second annular groove 184 b increases. As a result, the first looped belt 180 a is squeezed between the convex conical surface 194 a of the first outer plate 192 a and the first convex conical surface 198 a of the inner plate 196. This action displaces the first looped belt 180 a radially outward (upward along the arrow 210 a) in opposition to the spring-loaded tensile forces on the first looped belt 180 a, thereby increasing its radius R_(a) and correspondingly increasing the first pull wire displacement D_(a). At the same time, the second looped belt 180 b is released between the convex conical surface 198 a of the second outer plate 192 b and the second convex conical surface 198 b of the inner plate 196. This action displaces the second looped belt 180 b radially inward (downward along the arrow 210 b) facilitated by the spring-loaded tensile forces on the second looped belt 180 b, thereby decreasing its radius R_(b) and correspondingly decreasing the second pull wire displacement D_(b). In this case, the preset pull wire displacement ratio increases.

In contrast, when the inner plate 196 is slid along the axle 174 (leftward along the arrow 202), the width of the first annular groove 184 a increases, while the width of the second annular groove 184 b decreases. As a result, the first looped belt 180 a is released between the convex conical surface 194 a of the first outer plate 192 a and the first convex conical surface 198 a of the inner plate 196. This action displaces the first looped belt 180 a radially inward (downward along arrow 210 a) facilitated by the spring-loaded tensile forces on the first looped belt 180 a, thereby decreasing its radius R_(b) and correspondingly decreasing the first pull wire displacement D_(a). At the same time, the second looped belt 180 b is squeezed between the convex conical surface 198 a of the second outer plate 192 b and the second convex conical surface 198 b of the inner plate 196. This action displaces the second looped belt 180 b radially outward (upward along the arrow 210 b) in opposition to the spring-loaded tensile forces on the second looped belt 180 b, thereby increasing its radius R_(b) and correspondingly increasing the second pull wire displacement D_(b). In this case, the preset pull wire displacement ratio decreases.

Referring now to FIG. 17 , still another exemplary embodiment of a mechanical energy transmission linkage 18 c will be described. The mechanical transmission linkage 18 c is configured, in response to an input force F by the control mechanism 16 (shown in FIG. 1 ), for simultaneously applying two linear displacement outputs D_(a), D_(b) respectively to the proximal ends of the two pull wires 20 a, 20 b in accordance with a preset pull wire tension ratio. The mechanical transmission linkage 18 c is similar to the mechanical transmission linkage 18 b illustrated in FIG. 9 . However, unlike the mechanical transmission linkage 18 b, which sets the pull wire displacement ratio based on the respective radii of the cams, the mechanical transmission linkage 18 c sets the pull wire displacement ratio based on respective angular displacement of the cams.

The mechanical energy transmission linkage 18 c utilizes a plurality of cams 250 to create a preset pull wire linear displacement ratio between the pull wires 20, and in particular, two cams 250 a, 250 b that transform rotational motion (shown by arrows 254 a, 254 b) into linear motion to create a preset pull wire linear displacement ratio between the two pull wires 20 a, 20 b. The proximal end of the first pull wire 20 a is operably coupled to the first cam 250 a, while the proximal end of the second pull wire 20 b is operably coupled to the second cam 250 b. The mechanical energy transmission linkage 18 c further comprises a drive assembly 252 operably coupled to the cams 250. The control mechanism 16 is configured for applying an input force F to the drive assembly 252, such that the first cam 250 a applies a linear displacement output D_(a) to the proximal end of the first pull wire 20 a, and the second cam 250 b applies a linear displacement output D_(b) to the proximal end of the second pull wire 20 b, in accordance with the preset pull wire displacement ratio. That is, the cams 250 transform rotational energy provided to the cams 250 by the drive assembly 252 into linear motion to apply linear displacement outputs of D_(a), D_(b) to the proximal ends of the respective first and second pull wires 20 a, 20 b.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first cam 250 a comprises a first linear element 256 a to which the proximal end of the first pull wire 20 a is affixed, and a first rotary element 258 a engaged with the drive assembly 252. The second cam 250 b comprises a second linear element 256 b to which the proximal end of the second pull wire 20 b is affixed, and a second rotary element 258 b engaged with the drive assembly 252. The rotary elements 258 a, 258 b respectively have the same radii R. The drive assembly 252 rotates cams 250 a, 250 b at different angular displacements aa, ab.

In this case, it can be appreciated that the first linear displacement D_(a) is a linear function of the angular displacement aa of the first cam 250 a, in accordance with the equation:

$\begin{matrix} {{D_{a} = \frac{2\pi R_{a}\alpha}{360}},} & \lbrack 7\rbrack \end{matrix}$

and similarly, the second linear displacement D_(b) is a linear function of the angular displacement ab of the second cam 150 b, in accordance with the equation:

$\begin{matrix} {D_{b} = {\frac{2\pi R_{b}\alpha}{360}.}} & \lbrack 8\rbrack \end{matrix}$

The ratio between the first linear displacement D_(a) and the second linear displacement D_(b) can be characterized as:

$\begin{matrix} {{D_{a}/D_{b}} = {\frac{\frac{2\pi R_{a}\alpha}{360}}{\frac{2\pi R_{b}\alpha}{360}} = {R_{a}/{R_{b}.}}}} & \lbrack 9\rbrack \end{matrix}$

Thus, the displacement ratio of the mechanical energy transmission linkage 18 b can be preset by setting the respective angular displacements aa, ab of the rotary elements 258 a, 258 b, with the linear displacement outputs D_(a), D_(b) being directly proportional to the angular displacements aa, ab of the rotary elements 258 a, 258 b of the cams 250 a, 250 b with which they are respectively associated. In the illustrated embodiment, the respective angular displacements aa, ab of the rotary elements 258 a, 258 b are unequal, so that the pull wire displacement ratio of the mechanical energy transmission linkage 18 b is different than unity.

In the illustrated embodiment, the angular displacement aa of the first rotary element 158 a is greater than the angular displacement ab of the second rotary element 158 b, such that the first linear displacement output D_(a) applied to the proximal end of the first pull wire 20 a is greater than the second linear displacement output D_(b) applied to the proximal end of the second pull wire 20 b (i.e., the pull wire displacement ratio of the mechanical energy transmission linkage 18 b will be greater than unity). As a result, because the pull wires 20 a, 20 b are respectively associated with the proximal bend 30 and the distal end 32 of the compound curve 28 assumed by the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12, the extent of the proximal bend 30 will be greater than the extent of the distal bend 32.

Of course, in the alternative case where the angular displacement aa of the first rotary element 158 a is less than the angular displacement ab of the second rotary element 158 b, the first linear displacement output D_(a) applied to the proximal end of the first pull wire 20 a will be less than the second linear displacement output D_(b) applied to the proximal end of the second pull wire 20 b (i.e., the pull wire displacement ratio of the mechanical energy transmission linkage 18 b will be less than unity). As a result, because the pull wires 20 a, 20 b are respectively associated with the proximal bend 30 and the distal end 32 of the compound curve 28 assumed by the distal end 26 of the catheter body 12, the extent of the proximal bend 30 will be less than the extent of the distal bend 32.

It should be appreciated that if more than two pull wires 20 a, 20 b are used (i.e., the complex curve 28 has more than two bends), the mechanical transmission linkage 18 c may be modified to include additional cams 250 (i.e., one additional cam for each additional pull wire) to which the proximal ends of the additional pull wires 20 a, 20 b are operably coupled, and to which the control mechanism 16 applies the input force F via the drive assembly 252.

Referring now to FIGS. 18-24 , one specific embodiment of a mechanical transmission linkage 18 c(1) that simultaneously applies two linear displacement outputs D_(a), D_(b) respectively to the proximal ends of the two pull wires 20 a, 20 b in accordance with a preset pull wire displacement ratio will be described.

The mechanical transmission linkage 18 c(1) comprises a first cone 260 a, a second cone 260 b inversely oriented with respect to, and rotatably engaged with, the first cone 260 a, and a belt 262 frictionally disposed (i.e., sandwiched) between the cones 260 a, 260 b. The cones 260 a, 260 b and the belt 262 correspond to the drive assembly 252 of the mechanical transmission linkage 18 c of FIG. 17 . The mechanical transmission linkage 18 c(1) further comprises a first linear gear 264 a (i.e., a rack) and a second linear gear 264 b (i.e., a rack) that respectively correspond to the first linear element 256 a and the second linear element 256 b of the mechanical transmission linkage 18 c of FIG. 17 , a first rotary gear 266 a (i.e., a pinion) that corresponds to the first rotary element 258 a of the mechanical transmission linkage 18 c of FIG. 17 , and a second rotary gear 266 b (i.e., a pinion) that corresponds to the second rotary element 258 b of the mechanical transmission linkage 18 c of FIG. 17 . The first rotary gear 266 a is affixed relative to the first cone 260 a, and the second rotary gear 266 b is affixed relative to the second cone 260 b, such that the first rotary gear 266 a and the first cone 260 a rotate in unison, and the second rotary gear 266 b and the second cone 260 b rotate in unison. The first linear gear 264 a is operatively engaged with the first rotary gear 266 a, and is affixed to the proximal end of the first pull wire 20 a. The second linear gear 264 b is operatively engaged with the second rotary gear 266 b, and is affixed to the proximal end of the first pull wire 20 b.

In the illustrated embodiment, the mechanical transmission linkage 18 c(1) comprises a first axle 268 a to which the first cone 260 a and first rotary gear 266 a are affixed, and a second axle 268 b to which the second cone 260 b and second rotary gear 266 b are affixed. Although the first rotary gear 266 a is affixed to the first axle 268 a adjacent the base (i.e., the circular plane surface) of the first cone 260 a, and the second rotary gear 266 b is affixed to the second axle 268 b adjacent the base (i.e., the circular plane surface) of the second cone 260 b, alternatively, the first rotary gear 266 a may be affixed to the first axle 268 a adjacent the vertex of the first cone 260 a, and the second rotary gear 266 b may be affixed to the second axle 268 b adjacent the vertex of the second cone 260 b.

The mechanical transmission linkage 18 c(1) further comprises a frame 270 in which the cones 260 a, 260 b and linear gears 264 a, 264 b are affixed. The cones 260 a, 260 b are capable of being rotatably translated about their axes relative to the frame 270, whereas the linear gears 264 a, 264 b are capable of being linearly translated along their axes relative to the frame 270. The opposing ends of the first axle 268 a are rotatably disposed within holes 274 a formed in opposing walls 272 a, 272 b of the frame 270, and the opposing ends of the second axle 268 b are rotatably disposed within holes 274 b formed in the opposing walls 272 a, 272 b of the frame 270. The first linear gear 264 a and second linear gear 264 b respectively slide along the interior of the opposing walls 272 a, 272 b of the frame 270.

The control mechanism 16 is configured for applying an input force F, and in particular a tensile input, to the belt 262. In the illustrated embodiment, the control mechanism 16 is a variation of the control mechanism 16 illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B. In particular, the control mechanism 18 illustrated in FIGS. 18-22 comprises a slider 276 to which the proximal end of the belt 262 is affixed, and a screw mechanism 278 rotatably engaged with a threaded hole (not shown) in the slider 276. As will be described in further detail below, the proximal end of the belt 262 is slidably engaged with the slider 262 to facilitate lateral displacement of the belt 262 between the cones 260 a, 260 b. The frame 270 comprises two slots 280 formed in the respective walls 272 a, 272 b in which opposing ends of the slider 276 slide. The collar sleeve 48 of the control mechanism 16 is affixed to the proximal end of the screw mechanism 278, such that rotational displacement of the control mechanism 16 finely displaces the slider 276 linearly along the slots 280 of the opposing walls 272 a, 272 b of the frame 270, and linear displacement of the control mechanism 16 coarsely displaces the slider 276 linearly along the slots 280 of the opposing walls 272 a, 272 b of the frame 270.

The belt 262, which is frictionally engaged between the cones 260 a, 260 b, is linearly displaced (shown by the arrow 282), such that first cone 260 a and the first rotary gear 266 a rotate in unison (shown by the arrow 284 a) to linearly displace the first linear gear 264 a, thereby applying the first linear displacement output D_(a) to the proximal end of the first pull wire 20 a, and the second cone 260 b and the second rotary gear 266 b rotate in unison (shown by the arrow 284 b) to linearly displace the second linear gear 264 b, thereby applying the second linear displacement output D_(b) to the proximal end of the second pull wire 20 b, in accordance with the preset pull wire displacement ratio.

The preset pull wire displacement ratio of the mechanical transmission linkage 18 c(1) illustrated in FIGS. 18-24 (i.e., the ratio between the linear displacement outputs D_(a), D_(b)) is defined in equation [9] above. The belt 262 is frictionally disposed between the first cone 260 a and the second cone 260 b at a location coincident with a radius r_(a) of the first cone 260 a and a radius r_(b) of the second cone 260 b (see FIGS. 23A, 23B, 24A, and 24B). Depending upon the lateral location of the belt 262 between the cones 260 a, 260 b, the cones 260, 260 b rotate at respective angular displacements aa, ab. Although the radii R of the rotary gears 266 a, 226 b are the same, the radius r_(a) of the first cone 260 a is different than the radius r_(b) of the second cone 260 at the first lateral location of the belt 262 between the cones 260 a, 260 b. Thus, the preset pull wire linear displacement ratio of the first linear displacement D_(a) over the second linear displacement D_(b) will be different than unity. In this embodiment, the angular displacement aa of the first cone 260 a, and thus the first rotary gear 266 a, is greater than the angular displacement ab of the second cone 260 a, and thus the second rotary gear 266 b, in which case, the preset pull wire linear displacement ratio of the first linear displacement D_(a) over the second linear displacement D_(b) will be greater than unity. In alternative embodiments, the angular displacement aa of the first cone 260 a, and thus the first rotary gear 266 a, may be less than the angular displacement ab of the second cone 260 a, and thus the second rotary gear 266 b, in which case, the preset pull wire linear displacement ratio of the first linear displacement D_(a) over the second linear displacement D_(b) may be less than unity.

In the illustrated embodiment, the preset pull wire tension ratio of the mechanical transmission linkage 18 c(1) is adjustable. In particular, the angular displacements aa, ab of the cones 260 a, 260 b (and thus the rotary gears 266 a, 266 b) is adjustable. As best shown in FIGS. 18-22 , the mechanical transmission linkage 18 c(1) further comprises a pull wire displacement ratio adjustment mechanism 22 c configured for adjusting the angular displacements aa, ab of the cones 260 a, 260 b (and thus the rotary gears 266 a, 266 b) in an inversely proportional manner.

To this end, the pull wire displacement ratio adjustment mechanism 22 c is configured for laterally sliding the belt 262 between the cones 260 a, 260 b, e.g., between a first lateral position (see FIG. 23A) and a second lateral position (see FIG. 24A). In the illustrated embodiment, the pull wire displacement ratio adjustment mechanism 22 c comprises a pivotable carriage 284 having a plurality of arms 286 that support the belt 262 in tension. In the illustrated embodiment, the pivotable frame has four arms 286 a-286 d, with the proximal-most arm 286 a supporting the proximal end of the belt 262, a distal-most arm 286 d supporting the distal end of a spring 288 coupled to the distal end of the belt 262, and middle arms 286 b, 286 b supporting the middle of the belt 262 just proximal and distal to the cones 260 a, 260 b.

The pull wire displacement ratio adjustment mechanism 22 c further comprises a pivot arm 290 that extends longitudinally through a bore (not shown) formed through the frame 270, such that the carriage 284 may pivot about the pivot arm 290. The pivot arm 290 extends in a direction along the length of the belt 262, such that the belt 262 is laterally displaced between the cones 260 a, 260 b when the carriage 284 pivots about the pivot arm 290. As best shown in FIG. 19 , the slider 276 of the control mechanism 16 includes a guide slot 292 having an angle that corresponds to the angle of the interface between the cones 260 a, 260 b. The proximal end of the belt 262 is slidably disposed within the guide slot 292 of the slider 276, thereby allowing the belt 262 to be laterally displaced relative to the slider 276 when the carriage 284 is pivoted about the pivot arm 290. As a result, the angular displacement α_(a) of the first rotary gear 266 a is modified, such that the first pull wire displacement D_(a) changes, while the angular displacement ab of the second rotary gear 266 b is modified in inverse proportion to the modified angular displacement α_(a) of the first rotary gear 266 a, such that the second pull wire displacement D_(b) is modified in inverse proportion to the first pull wire displacement D_(a).

For example, when the belt 262 is slid between the cones 260 a, 260 b (downward along the arrow 294 a in FIG. 20 ), the radius r_(a) of the first cone 260 a coincident with the modified lateral location is increased, thereby decreasing the angular displacement α_(a) of the first rotary gear 266 a and correspondingly decreasing the first pull wire displacement D_(a), while the radius r_(b) of the second cone 260 b coincident with the modified lateral location is decreased, thereby increasing the angular displacement ab of the second rotary gear 266 b and correspondingly increasing the second pull wire displacement D_(b) (see, e.g., FIGS. 24A and 24B).

In contrast, when the belt 262 is slid between the cones 260 a, 260 b (upward along the arrow 294 b in FIG. 20 ), the radius r_(a) of the first cone 260 a coincident with the modified lateral location is decreased, thereby increasing the angular displacement α_(a) of the first rotary gear 266 a and correspondingly increasing the first pull wire displacement D_(a), while the radius r_(b) of the second cone 260 b coincident with the modified lateral location is increased, thereby decreasing the angular displacement ab of the second rotary gear 266 b and correspondingly decreasing the second pull wire displacement D_(b) (see, e.g., FIGS. 23A and 23B).

As briefly discussed above, the energy transmission linkage 18 may alternatively be a fluid energy transmission linkage, and the single energy input applied to the fluid energy transmission linkage by the control mechanism 16 may be a single mechanical energy input. The energy transmission conduits 20 may be, e.g., mechanical energy transmission conduits, in which case, the energy outputs applied to the mechanical energy transmission conduits by the fluid energy transmission linkage may be mechanical energy outputs, or the energy transmission conduits 20 may be, e.g., fluid energy transmission conduits, in which case, the energy outputs applied to the fluid energy transmission conduits by the fluid energy transmission linkage may be fluid energy outputs.

Referring to FIG. 25 , one exemplary embodiment of a fluidic energy transmission linkage 18 d will be described. The fluidic energy transmission linkage 18 d is configured for, in response to a mechanical input force F by the control mechanism 16 (shown in FIG. 1 ), simultaneously applying mechanical outputs Fa, Fb respectively to the proximal ends of two energy transmission conduits 20 a, 20 b in accordance with a preset mechanical force ratio. In this case, the mechanical input force F by the control mechanism 16 via an input shaft 300, and the energy transmission conduits 20 a, 20 b are mechanical transmission conduits that take the form of axially rigid, but laterally flexible, rods.

The fluidic energy transmission linkage 18 d comprises a bifurcated chamber 302 containing a liquid 304 at a pressure P_(ab). The bifurcated chamber 302 comprises an input chamber portion 306 and a first chamber portion 308 a and a second chamber portion 308 b that bifurcate from the input chamber portion 306. The input chamber portion 306 and output chamber portions 308 a, 308 b that are all in fluid communication via a liquid 304, and thus, are at the same pressure P_(ab). The fluidic energy transmission linkage 18 d further comprises an input plunger 312 affixed to the distal end of the input rod 300, and slidably disposed within the input chamber portion 306, a first output plunger 314 a affixed to the proximal end of the first mechanical transmission conduit 20 a, and slidably disposed within the first output chamber portion 308 a, and a second output plunger 314 b affixed to the proximal end of the second mechanical transmission conduit 20 b, and slidably disposed within the second output chamber portion 308 a.

The input plunger 312 sealingly engages the walls of the input chamber portion 306, while the output plungers 314 a, 314 b sealingly engage the walls of the respective output chamber portions 308 a, 308 b, such that downward displacement of the input plunger 312 in the input chamber portion 306 increases the pressure P_(ab) in the input chamber portion 306, and thus, increases the pressure P_(ab) in the bifurcated output chamber portions 308 a, 308 b, while upward displacement of the input plunger 312 in the input chamber portion 306 decreases the pressure P_(ab) in the input chamber portion 306, and thus, decreases the pressure P_(ab) in the bifurcated output chamber portions 308 a, 308 b.

As a result, the output plungers 314 a, 314 b apply force outputs Fa, Fb to the proximal ends of the mechanical transmission conduits 20 a, 20 b in accordance with a ratio between the areas of the output plungers 314 a, 314 b. In the illustrated embodiment, the area of the second output plunger 314 b is greater than the area of the first output plunger 314 a, and thus, the force output Fb applied to the second mechanical transmission conduit 20 b will be greater than the force output Fa applied to the first mechanical transmission conduit 20 a. Of course, if the area of the first output plunger 314 a is greater than the area of the second output plunger 314 b, the force output Fa applied to the first mechanical transmission conduit 20 a will be greater than the force output Fb applied to the second mechanical transmission conduit 20 b.

Referring to FIG. 26 , another exemplary embodiment of a fluidic energy transmission linkage 18 e will be described. The fluidic energy transmission linkage 18 e is configured for, in response to a mechanical input force F by the control mechanism 16 (shown in FIG. 1 ), simultaneously applying volume outputs V_(a), V_(b) respectively to the proximal ends of two mechanical transmission conduits 20 a, 20 b in accordance with a preset fluid volume ratio. In this case, the mechanical input force F by the control mechanism 16 via a yoke 320 having a first arm 322 a and a second arm 322 b, and the energy transmission conduits 20 a, 20 b are fluidic transmission conduits that take the form of hydraulic lines.

The fluidic energy transmission linkage 18 d comprises a first chamber 324 a containing liquid 326 a at a first pressure Pa, and a second chamber 324 b containing liquid 326 b at a second pressure Pb. The chambers 324 a, 324 b are fluidly isolated from each other, and thus, the pressures Pa, Pb are independent of each other. The fluidic energy transmission linkage 18 e further comprises a first plunger 328 a affixed to the distal end of the first arm 322 a of the yoke 320, and slidably disposed within the first chamber 324 a, and a second plunger 328 b affixed to the distal end of the second arm 322 b of the yoke 320, and slidably disposed within the second chamber 324 b.

The first plunger 328 a sealingly engages the walls of the first chamber 324 a, while the second plunger 328 b sealingly engage the walls of the second chamber 324 b, such that downward displacement of the plunger 328 a, 328 b in the chambers 324 a, 324 b increases the pressures Pa, Pb in the chambers 324 a, 324 b, while upward displacement of the plunger 328 a, 328 b in the chambers 324 a, 324 b decreases the pressures Pa, Pb in the chambers 324 a, 324 b. The pressures Pa, Pb in the respective chambers 324 a, 324 b will be proportional to the areas of the output plunger 328 a, 328 b.

As a result, the plunger 328 a, 328 b apply volume outputs V_(a), V_(b) to the proximal ends of the fluidic transmission conduits 20 a, 20 b in accordance with a ratio between the areas of the output plunger 328 a, 328 b. In the illustrated embodiment, the area of the second plunger 328 b is greater than the area of the first plunger 328 a, and thus, the volume output V_(b) applied to the second fluidic transmission conduit 20 b will be greater than the volume output V_(a) applied to the first fluidic transmission conduit 20 a. Of course, in the case where the area of the first plunger 328 a is greater than the area of the second plunger 328 b, the volume output V_(a) applied to the first fluidic transmission conduit 20 a will be greater than the volume output V_(b) applied to the second fluidic transmission conduit 20 b.

Although particular embodiments have been shown and described herein, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that they are not intended to limit the disclosed inventions, and it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various changes, permutations, and modifications may be made (e.g., the dimensions of various parts, combinations of parts) without departing from the scope of the disclosed inventions, which is to be defined only by the following claims and their equivalents. The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative rather than restrictive sense. The various embodiments shown and described herein are intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents of the disclosed inventions, which may be included within the scope of the appended claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. An intravascular device, comprising: an elongated catheter body having a proximal end and a distal end; a plurality of conduits extending within the elongated catheter body, wherein distal ends of the conduits terminate at different axial locations along the distal end of the catheter body; a controller; and a linkage coupled between proximal ends of the conduits and the controller, wherein the linkage is configured for, in response to a single energy input applied to the linkage by the controller, simultaneously applying a plurality of energy outputs respectively to the proximal ends of the energy transmitting conduits at a preset control parameter ratio; wherein the distal end of the elongated catheter body is configured for assuming a compound curve comprising a plurality of bends in response to the application of the plurality of energy outputs by the linkage to the proximal ends of the energy transmitting conduits.
 2. The intravascular device of claim 1, further comprising a handle affixed to the proximal end of the elongated catheter body, wherein the controller and linkage are supported by the handle.
 3. The intravascular device of claim 1, wherein the number of conduits is only two, such that the number of bends in the compound curve assumed by the distal end of elongated body is only two.
 4. The intravascular device of claim 1, wherein the control parameter ratio of the linkage is different than unity.
 5. The intravascular device of claim 1, wherein the control parameter ratio of the linkage is adjustable.
 6. The intravascular device of claim 5, further comprising a control parameter ratio adjustment mechanism configured for adjusting the preset control parameter ratio of the linkage.
 7. The intravascular device of claim 6, wherein the control parameter ratio adjustment mechanism is configured for adjusting the preset control parameter ratio of the linkage within a continuous range.
 8. The intravascular device of claim 6, wherein the control parameter ratio adjustment mechanism is configured for adjusting the preset control parameter ratio of the linkage within a discrete range.
 9. The intravascular device of claim 1, wherein the conduits are mechanical conduits, the linkage is a mechanical linkage, the single energy input is a single mechanical energy input, and the energy outputs are mechanical energy outputs.
 10. The intravascular device of claim 9, wherein the mechanical energy outputs are applied to the proximal ends of the mechanical conduits in accordance with one of a preset force ratio and a preset linear displacement ratio.
 11. The intravascular device of claim 10, wherein the mechanical conduits are pull wires and the one of the preset force ratio and the preset linear displacement ratio comprises one of a pull wire tension ratio and a pull wire displacement ratio.
 12. The intravascular device of claim 11, wherein the one of the preset pull wire tension ratio and the preset pull wire displacement ratio comprises the preset pull wire displacement ratio, and the mechanical energy outputs are linear displacement outputs.
 13. The intravascular device of claim 12, wherein the mechanical transmission linkage comprises a first cam to which a proximal end of a first one of the pull wires is operatively coupled, a second cam to which a proximal end of a first one of the pull wires is operatively coupled, and a drive assembly operatively coupled to the first cam and the second cam, wherein the control mechanism is configured for applying the mechanical energy input to the drive assembly, such that the first cam applies a first one of the linear displacement outputs to the proximal end of the first pull wire, and the second cam applies a second one of the linear displacement outputs to the proximal end of the second pull wire, in accordance with the preset pull wire displacement ratio.
 14. The intravascular device of claim 13, wherein the first cam comprises a first linear element to which the proximal end of the first pull wire is affixed, the first cam comprises a first rotary element engaged with the drive assembly, the second cam comprises a second linear element to which the proximal end of the second pull wire is affixed, and the second cam comprises a second rotary element engaged with the drive assembly.
 15. The intravascular device of claim 14, wherein the control mechanism is configured for applying the mechanical energy input to the drive assembly, such that the first rotary element and the second rotary element have the same angular displacement, and the first rotary element and the second rotary element have different radii, whereby the first linear displacement output and second linear displacement output are different.
 16. The intravascular device of claim 15, wherein the drive assembly comprises a linear drive rack having a first geared side and a second geared side opposite the first geared side, the first linear element comprises a first linear gear affixed to the proximal end of the first pull wire, the first rotary element comprises a first rotary gear and a second rotary gear fixed in relation to the first rotary gear, the first rotary gear engaged with the first linear gear, the second rotary gear engaged with the first geared side of the linear drive rack, the second linear element comprises a second linear gear affixed to the proximal end of the second pull wire, the second rotary element comprises a third rotary gear engaged between the second linear gear and the second geared side of the linear drive rack, and the control mechanism is configured for applying the mechanical energy input to the linear drive rack, such that the first rotary gear and the second rotary gear rotate in unison to linearly displace the first linear gear, thereby applying the first tensile output to the proximal end of the first pull wire, and the third rotary gear rotates to linear displace the second linear gear, thereby applying the second tensile output to the proximal end of the second pull wire, in accordance with the preset pull wire displacement ratio.
 17. The intravascular device of claim 16, wherein a radius of the first rotary gear is different from a radius of the third rotary gear, such that the preset pull wire displacement ratio is different from unity.
 18. The intravascular device of claim 15, wherein drive assembly comprises an axle, the first linear element comprises a first belt, the second linear element comprises a second belt, the mechanical transmission linkage comprises a wheel assembly having a first annular groove that forms the first rotary element, and a second annular groove that forms the second rotary element, the first belt looped around the first annular groove of the wheel assembly to form a first distal end coupled to the proximal end of the first pull wire and a second distal end coupled to a first anchor point, the second belt is looped around the second annular groove of the wheel assembly to form a first distal end coupled to the proximal end of the second pull wire and a second distal end coupled to a second anchor point, and the control mechanism is configured for applying the linear input force to the axle, such that first annular groove rotates to linearly displace the first belt, thereby applying the first linear displacement output to the proximal end of the first pull wire, and the second annular groove rotates to linearly displace the second belt, thereby applying the second linear displacement output to the proximal end of the second pull wire, in accordance with the preset pull wire displacement ratio.
 19. The intravascular device of claim 18, wherein the first looped belt has a first radius, and the second looped belt has a second radius different from the first radius, such that the preset pull wire displacement ratio is different from unity.
 20. The intravascular device of claim 18, wherein the first looped belt has a first radius, and the second looped belt has a second radius, the intravascular device further comprising a pull wire displacement ratio adjustment mechanism configured adjusting at least one of the first radius of the first looped belt and the second radius of the second looped belt.
 21. The intravascular device of claim 20, wherein the wheel assembly comprises: first and second outer plates disposed on the axle, the first and second outer plates being laterally affixed along the axle and respectively having convex conical surfaces that face each other; and an inner plate slidably disposed along the axle between the first and second outer plates, the inner plate having opposing first and second convex conical surfaces that respectively face the convex conical surfaces of the first and second outer plates, whereby the first annular groove is formed between the convex conical surface of the first outer plate and the first convex conical surface of the inner plate, and the second annular groove is formed between the convex conical surface of the second outer plate and the second convex conical surface of the inner plate; wherein the first belt has inwardly angled opposing surfaces that respectively conform to the convex conical surface of the first outer plate and the first convex conical surface of the inner plate, thereby setting a first radius of the first looped belt, and the second belt has inwardly angled opposing surfaces that respectively conform to the convex conical surface of the second outer plate and the second convex conical surface of the inner plate, thereby setting a second radius of the second looped belt; the intravascular device further comprising a pull wire displacement ratio adjustment mechanism configured for laterally sliding the inner plate along the axle, whereby a width of the first annular groove is increased, thereby decreasing the radius of the first looped belt, such that the first tensile output decreases, while a width of the second annular groove is decreased, thereby increasing the radius of the second looped belt, such that the second tensile output increases, whereby the preset pull wire displacement ratio is modified.
 22. The intravascular device of claim 21, wherein each of the first and second belts have a trapezoidal cross-section.
 23. The intravascular device of claim 21, wherein the pull wire displacement ratio adjustment mechanism comprises a slider carriage configured for being laterally displaced along a direction of the axle, the slider carriage having a groove in which an outer portion of the inner plate is disposed, such that displacement of the slider carriage slides the inner plate along the axle.
 24. The intravascular device of claim 23, wherein the pull wire displacement ratio adjustment mechanism further comprises a pair of rails extending in a direction along the axle, and wherein the slider carriage is configured for sliding along the pair of rails.
 25. The intravascular device of claim 18, wherein the drive assembly further comprises a yoke having two arms, the axle being rotatably affixed between the two arms of the yoke, the control mechanism being coupled to the yoke for applying the mechanical energy input to the axle of the pulley. 